Today, we place so many demands on ourselves—working for more productivity at our jobs, continuing education, parents managing their children’s myriad activities—all that along with daily activity. When asked to take on a role or task for church, however, the hesitancy to take on another commitment sometimes sneaks in.
Mary Baker Eddy, the author of the Christian Science textbook, Science and Health with Key to the Scriptures, makes a surprising statement about giving of ourselves: “Mind-science teaches that mortals need ‘not be weary in well doing.’ It dissipates fatigue in doing good” (p. 79). The idea that worthwhile activity could actually dissipate or remove fatigue goes against conventional wisdom, but the marginal heading “Divine strength,” next to the statement just mentioned, gives guidance as to where to find the understanding that proves this rule.
Christ Jesus’ life of service is a good example of demonstrating divine strength. He disproved material laws that suggest there is a finite amount of time or energy, which if expended will result in some loss. One of the many instances of Jesus’ boundless service was when he had been told of the beheading of John the Baptist (see Matthew 14:12–14). Upon hearing of this, Jesus desired to go to the desert and take time alone. However, the crowds followed him—and when he saw all the people, he “was moved with compassion toward them, and he healed their sick.” Although from a human perspective the desire to be alone was more than reasonable, Jesus responded in the opposite way by giving to—and healing—others.
