“Somewhere, sometime, somehow, I will learn to be more Christlike.” That was always my deepest wish over the years as I grew up in Christian Science.
At the same time, however, I struggled with ambivalent feelings about Christian Science. I felt as if I were somehow odd for being a Christian Scientist, and different from my friends. Even still, I dearly loved the reassurance Christian Science gave me whenever difficulties arose, that God always loves me. Whenever healing was needed, Mama would hold me and sing hymns from the Christian Science Hymnal. I never felt more safe and loved than during those moments.
Now, as an adult, I’ve continued to pray for healing when needed, and I’ve been healed, uplifted, comforted, and guided harmoniously as a result of these prayers. A little over a year ago, however, I was feeling overwhelmed by difficulties, and despite my prayers, I didn’t know what to do. I reached out to God for help.
I felt led to go to a room, close the door, close my eyes, quiet my thoughts, and just listen to God. I mentally said, “OK, Father, I’m listening.” Slowly and gently I heard these words in my consciousness: “I … love … you.” A deep sense of divine Love’s warm embrace swept over me. I felt bathed in sweet, spiritual goodness. I realized I had finally felt Christ speaking directly to me.
This simple message was exactly what I needed. I now know without a doubt that God loves me. He has always loved me. It just took my receptive, yearning thought to hear the message.
Of course, I’m hardly the only one who has this glorious love of God. Actually, God, who is All-in-all, loves every one of us. So, now I know that in reality I’m not different or odd. I’m just like everyone else, since we are all God’s beloved, precious children. And we can all be Christlike by loving others as God loves us.
Sharon Simpson
