When I worked as a Christian Science nurse, I particularly cherished the idea to always hold in thought the expectancy of healing. Christian Science nurses trust that every specific task before them will promote the healing work happening in thought, and that the needs of the patient will unfold in new ways, as both the Christian Science nurse and the patient reach higher spiritual altitudes. In practical terms, this could mean that what was needed to provide proper care in one visit could certainly change by the next.
One tangible expression of expecting healing came to me during one of my training courses. It is common practice, especially when working in a Christian Science care facility, to knock on someone’s door before entering the room. As we were discussing in class how to prepare thought before walking into a patient’s room, I remembered Christ Jesus’ promise, “Ask, and it shall be given you; seek, and ye shall find; knock, and it shall be opened unto you: for every one that asketh receiveth; and he that seeketh findeth; and to him that knocketh it shall be opened” (Matthew 7:7, 8).
What a perfect concept to apply to entering a patient’s room with the expectancy of healing! When we pause at the literal door, we are waiting on God to open thought for the Christian Science nurse and the patient to know what is needed for healing—and to expect to be guided rightly.
