One Fourth of July, shortly after arriving at a family pool party, my then ten-year-old son told me his ear hurt. I’d experienced and known of many Christian Science healings, so it was natural for me to find a quiet place and pray for him. Our children know that we never expect them to ignore or just tough out a problem.
Our son wanted to stay at the party, and he eagerly joined others in the pool. During the party and dinner he didn’t mention or show signs of any discomfort. But later that night when we were home and getting ready for bed, he said his ear was really hurting and itchy. My wife is not a Christian Scientist, and I defer to her about how to address our children’s health needs. She agreed that I should pray for him, and we did our best to make sure he was comfortable.
At first he was restless and said he dreaded a long night. I told him I’d go into the next room and pray for him, but he wanted me to stay with him, so of course I did. It was getting late, and I was feeling worn out from the holiday activities, but I kneeled down next to him, rested against his bed, and started to pray.
