A Christian Science Sunday School teacher once pointed out to our class of young teens that Jesus never instructed his followers, “Worship me.” Rather, he counseled them, “Follow me” and “Heal the sick” (Matthew 4:19; 10:8). Jesus expected his disciples to be healers—whether or not he was with them in person. When they returned with encouraging reports of their success from a healing mission that Jesus had sent them on, the Bible says that he rejoiced (see Luke 10:1–21).
I loved that account, and in my high school years, I felt deeply drawn to the merciful idealism and practical affection underlying Christ Jesus’ words and healing works. I was moved by the clear, brief summary of Jesus’ Christly living and healing recorded in the biblical book of Acts: “God anointed Jesus of Nazareth with the Holy Ghost and with power: who went about doing good, and healing all that were oppressed of the devil; for God was with him” (10:38).
Several healings I experienced while receiving treatment from a Christian Science practitioner during that period—including an overnight recovery from a painful skiing injury, and freedom from a sense of academic pressure—were valuable steps in my spiritual progress.
