In July 2011, just weeks after I started as First Reader at my local Christian Science branch church, I noticed a lump on my breast and discoloration. I immediately called a Christian Science practitioner to support me in prayer. To be honest, even as a lifelong Christian Scientist, I had always thought I might react with dread and panic to a symptom such as this. But wonderfully, my initial response was naturally calm and unafraid, and I was confident of complete healing.
I was convinced that this condition was simply a suggestion—mortal mind’s attempt to dislodge me from my post as Reader, which I loved. I felt certain that I would not have been given this privilege and opportunity to bless others and grow spiritually, only to have to forfeit it for illness.
The practitioner pointed me to the story of Nehemiah rebuilding the walls of Jerusalem, and this promise: “The God of heaven, he will prosper us; therefore we his servants will arise and build” (Nehemiah 2:20). This reminded me that God is doing the healing work (not me), and, indeed, that divine Love upholds our church.
