Freely Spread Everlasting Blessings!Rick Stewart, C.S., Dresden, Germany |  | 
[Freely Spread Everlasting Blessings!]
Knowing that your Daddy will catch you if you fall!!
Metaphysical Application Ideas from CedarS Camps
for the Christian Science Bible Lesson for October 28, 2012 on
"Everlasting Punishment" [or Everlasting Blessings.
Your choice: Trick? Or Treatment!] by Rick Stewart, CS of Dresden, Germany (Tel.+49-351 312-4736)
RickStewartCS@aol.com
This Bible Lesson is not about how God is going to punish some of us for eternity. This Lesson is designed to help us understand more of God's saving and eternal Love.
Does God select some to be saved and others to be condemned to suffer in eternity?
Many Christian denominations have historically taught that doctrine and expected their new members to subscribe to that belief. As a girl of 12, Mary Baker Eddy, then Mary Baker, had to answer that question if she wanted to be a member of her local Congregational Church.
She writes: "At the age of twelve I was admitted to the Congregational (Trinitarian) Church... Before this step was taken, the doctrine of unconditional election, or predestination, greatly troubled me... So perturbed was I by the thoughts aroused by this erroneous doctrine, that the family doctor was summoned, and pronounced me stricken with fever. My father's relentless theology emphasized belief in a final judgment-day, in the danger of endless punishment, and in a Jehovah merciless towards unbelievers; and of these things he now spoke, hoping to win me from dreaded heresy. My mother, as she bathed my burning temples, bade me lean on God's love. [Doing so, Mary was comforted and healed.]
(When questioned by the pastor)...I stoutly maintained that I was willing to trust God and take my chance of spiritual safety with my brothers and sisters not one of whom had then made any profession of religion even if my creedal doubts left me outside the doors (of church)... To the astonishment of many, the good clergyman's heart also melted, and he received me into their communion, and my protest along with me" (Retrospection and Introspection, by Mary Baker Eddy pp. 13-15).
In recent days I have also been thinking about this doctrine, but in a little different way. You might remember from my CedarS MET for last month that our little Martha was just beginning to walk. In that month's time she has become pretty steady and loves to walk all over the house and outside as well. Just last Sunday she took one of her longest hikes, about 500 meters. My wife Susanne, and our dog, Theo, joined her. She was very proud of herself.
As she has been learning to walk, one of my favorite pastimes has been following along ready to give her a hand if she needs steadying and also to pick her up if she falls. And there have been lots and lots of falls. But they were not the end of the world, usually that is. And she has gained a little each day in her confidence, strength, endurance, and steadiness. There is still a long ways to go before her first marathon, but already she prefers to walk on her own rather than be carried.
And this is the context in which I have found myself thinking about this Bible Lesson. I have been prompted to think about my falls, my failings, my tumbles, and my missteps. And I have been reminded of the countless times that "my Father" has come to my aid. Just like little Martha, I have a long way to go in my "walk," but I loved seeing how the loving hand of the Father is actually always there to save and lift me up. And to me that is what this wonderful Bible lesson is all about, God's promise, "I will catch you if you fall."
Here are just a few brief insights that might make your study of this week's Bible Lesson an encouragement instead of a fear tactic.
Golden Text:
Hosea 14:2 "...turn to the Lord: say unto him, Take away all iniquity, and receive us graciously."
This Golden Text is from the Prophet Hosea. He was considered one of the minor Jewish prophets. He lived probably in the 8th Century, B.C. He lived in what was known as the "Northern Kingdom" of Israel. And his writing was at a time toward the end of this kingdom. Hosea was really worried that his people were not remaining true to God, but were being enticed by the local religion, Baal worship. This Baal worship included religiously-based immorality, worshipping of golden calves, other idols, and even child sacrifice.
Responsive Reading:
The Responsive Reading is from Isaiah and once again from Hosea. Both Prophets encourage a turning from sin to faithful following. Isaiah, "though your sins be as scarlet, they shall be as white as snow; though they be red like crimson, they shall be as wool." Hosea, "...I am the Lord thy God from the land of Egypt, and thou shalt know no god but me: for there is no saviour beside me. I will heal their backsliding, I will love them freely:... for the ways of the Lord are right, and the just shall walk in them."
The "Ephraim" that Hosea refers to is his actual nation. The Northern Kingdom of Israel was made up of tribes of Ephraim and Manasseh, the sons of Joseph. "When Ephraim spake trembling, he exalted himself in Israel;... Ephraim shall say, What have I to do any more with idols?"
So we are introduced to the lesson with a call to turn from sin and receive the blessing of the Lord.
Section 1 - Man is the beloved child of God, pure and perfect.
This section firmly establishes the fact that God makes us good. In citation B-2 [and echoed in citation S-2], Habakkuk states: "Thou art of purer eyes than to behold evil and canst not look on iniquity." [Mrs. Eddy builds her healing theology on this all-good God:] "God could never impart an element of evil, and man possesses nothing which he has not derived from God. How then has man a basis for wrong-doing?" (S-3)
Remember the conversation Jesus had with some people about the nature of God and his relationship to man, Matthew 7: 9-11, "Or what man is there of you, whom if his son ask bread, will he give him a stone? Or if he ask a fish, will he give him a serpent? If ye then, being evil, know how to give good gifts unto your children, how much more shall your Father which is in heaven give good things to them that ask him?"
We remember God's nature as a better Father or Mother than we are; and we expect very consistent parenting. Sometimes I really messed up as a kid, but did my folks condemn me to eternal punishment? Nope, not eternal, there was punishment, but usually well-deserved and definitely it did not last forever. My parents were just great, but God is an even better, more consistent, more loving Parent.
Little Martha continues to walk and sometimes fall down, is that a reason for me to get angry? Encouragement, comfort, and love go a lot further in developing a patient and steady walk through life.
The Bible citations in this section conclude with what Mrs. Eddy chose to close our Sunday Church Services with: (B-5) I John 3:1-3. I love this translation of these verses from the "God's Word" translation: "Consider this: The Father has given us his love. He loves us so much that we are actually called God's dear children. And that's what we are. For this reason the world doesn't recognize us, and it didn't recognize him either. Dear friends, now we are God's children. What we will be isn't completely clear yet. We do know that when Christ appears we will be like him because we will see him as he is. So all people who have this confidence in Christ keep themselves pure, as Christ is pure."
Section 2 - Jonah does not accept God's job offer, ooops?
Is it easy to do the things you are asked to do? Nope. Is it always easy to do the right thing? Nope. All of us usually have something else we would rather do. "I thought the job offer was a supervisory position! I didn't know I would have to scrub toilets!" (When one of my high school buddies and I got the jobs as # 1 and #2 lifeguards at our local swimming pool, we were a little surprised when we found out that at the end of every day we had to clean both the boys and girls bathrooms! But even with that responsibility we loved our jobs.) And later when that job grew into Swimming Pools manager for the City of Ocala, it enabled me to rent my first office for the Christian Science healing practice!!
Citation B-6 tells how Jonah resisted in simply following God's instruction to go and preach in Nineveh. Instead he tried to run [the opposite direction] from the job. Jonah's prejudice against the city may have started him on his path of avoidance. After all, the city had a pretty bad reputation. But because of fear, doubt, whatever self-centered motive, Jonah chose to run away from God‘s call. He could have simply obeyed and had a nice trip and good speaking tour. But instead he got an "inside cabin." But I absolutely love the fact that even though he avoided immediate obedience, Jonah was saved. Below is a link to a testimony that shows that God has not in any way reduced his saving power when it comes to taking care of His kids.
The following experience was shared with me by a fellow Christian Science practitioner, several years ago. The mother that related the story prefers to remain anonymous. There were news and press reports at the time, so it did occur and was noted. It is not one of those web items that is fictional. This did occur. I called and confirmed its validity with the individual that sent it to me. She knew the mother in the story!!
I have added some explanatory comments in my blog for those unfamiliar with this part of the world.
Saved at Sea, in the Gulf of Mexico, [a Jonah-like, 20th century confirmation of A, B, C:]
[A] "If a man were drowning in mid ocean with apparently no human help at hand, there is a law of God which when rightly appealed to, would bring about his rescue." Adam H. Dickey, "God's Law of Adjustment"
[B] "Undisturbed amid the jarring testimony of the material senses, Science, still enthroned, is unfolding to mortals the immutable, harmonious, divine Principle is unfolding Life and the universe, ever present and eternal". Mary Baker Eddy, Science & Health with Key To the Scriptures [C] "If I take the wings of the morning and dwell in the uttermost parts of the sea, even there shall thy hand lead me and thy right hand shall hold me." Psalms 139
A young man was travelling with his boat in the Gulf of Mexico on his way to meet friends for lunch. He had not let them know he was coming. When his boat broke down he went overboard to check out the damage. While he was in the water the anchor rope slipped off and the boat floated away faster than he could swim. He was truly lost at sea, but when you read of his rescue you will see that the above quotations [A, B, C] remain true today. (And it even includes some of God's sea creatures!!)
Read the entire account of this young man's rescue: http://rickstewartcs.blogspot.de/
If you are reading this printed out and do not have internet connection, just give me a call and I can send it to you or read it to you!
Section 3 - Deliverance without consequence, Jonah's saga continues
Jonah is taken care of, he is preserved, and his opportunity to follow God's commands is renewed. As Jonah learned, "Salvation is of the Lord." (B-10)
Just goes to show God is ever-ready to save, bless and love His little ones, no matter what mistakes we have seemed to make. There is no condemnation, just Love. And you can never know how important even the littlest assignment or act of obedience can be. Just following your inspiration can give light or hope to another. For example:
Citation S-17"The purpose and motive to live aright can be gained now. This point won, you have started as you should" (Science and Health, page 326) has given me strength time and time again. It was first drawn to my attention when I was reading the Science and Health of a good friend, Cathy Manyik Kresge. She had highlighted it in her textbook. It always spoke to me of simply starting to do the right thing. And we then can be assured we will succeed with God's help.
The testimony in the link illustrates that saving power of divine Love, even when we seemed to have made terrible mistakes [even inside the belly of a steel "whale"]. You can find it at JSH Online through the following link:
[Or you can haven't yet started to reap the great blessings of JSH Online, you can find] Roland H. Allen's testimony in a Bound Volume from the June 2, 1945 issue of the Christian Science Sentinel [or on an old Reading Room recording with "God's Law of Adjustment"]
Section 4 - Jonah discovers a receptive audience
After a rather roundabout trip to the lecture, Jonah finds a very receptive audience in Nineveh. They take to heart Jonah's observations and his mission brings great fruit.
Some years ago I received a call to lecture in Ft. Worth, Texas. It was at a time of long lecture tours. I was already scheduled to be up in Illinois and Minnesota. The clerk in Ft. Worth asked if I was free for a certain Sunday afternoon. I told her yes, but I would be in Illinois. I thought she would say, oh well that is quite a distance, perhaps another date. But instead she insisted on that date. My first reaction was, "What willfulness!!" We were having a family Bar B Q at the time of the call. When I hung up I rejoined the family and murmured to my mom about the telephone call. When I said, "I have never encountered such [human] will before," my mom simply asked, "And are you free that date?" "Well, yes I am." "Okay, where is the willfulness?" Being properly and wisely admonished I went back and called the clerk requesting the lecture. I let her know I would check and see if I could make plane connections for her date. And guess what, there was a late night flight on Saturday evening. I could make their date, leave my van at the airport, and come back on Monday morning.
It is interesting that this lecture prompted lots and lots of prayer from my side. There were great obstacles and resistance that had to be met prayerfully. My lecture was entitled, "Home: God-Provided, God-Maintained," and it handled the belief of homelessness. When I arrived for the lecture I found that the lecture chairman had collected newspapers for several days before the lecture as I had requested. The front page of the newspaper for the day of the lecture told the story of a mother who had taken her small children to the Police Station. She was hopeless and had no prospects for being able to continue to provide a home for them. So we opened the lecture with this article. And together we all considered how we can pray to heal this problem of homelessness for ourselves and for the world.
As I said the preparations for this lecture had been rather rocky and had required lots of prayer on my part. Also lots of humility and spiritual growth. The day after the lecture I flew back up north and continued on my lecture tour. Suddenly I realized that I had not been paid. When I called the lecture chairman, she told me, "Oh but Mr. Stewart, remember I told you there was something "in there for you" with the fruit basket and the newspapers!" Oooops, I had not gotten the message. At first I thought I may have thrown the envelope out with the newspapers. I went into my suitcase, looked through the newspaper clippings, and sure enough there was the envelope. I called the lecture chairman with the good news. She was overjoyed to hear from me, "Mr. Stewart, I have the most wonderful news. The morning paper had the following story. That mother came back to the Police Station to reclaim her children and had said she would just do whatever it took to keep her family together. And lots of people have come forward to help her out. It is just so wonderful." Obviously I hung up the phone rebuked, humbled, and with tears of gratitude. Just like Jonah I had found a receptive audience, a spiritually responsive audience, and Love had indeed been the Savior. But I did have to get a lot of "self" out of the way, and thanks to my mom that had begun that summer day nine months before the lecture.
Section 5 - No everlasting punishment from "materialistic codes" [Trick? Or Treatment!]
"Who did sin, this man or his parents that he was born blind?" (B-17) John 9: 1-7, 32
In Jesus' day there was an automatic reaction that illness, handicaps, and physical disorders were often a punishment for sin. In these times physical scientists are certain that DNA and hereditary causes are the foundation for disease. But what says the Christ? "Neither hath this man sinned or his parents, but that the works of God should be made manifest in him." [Bible Scholar, Cobbey Crisler said that this was like Jesus responding "None of the above" to the either-or choice of who did sin. Another appropriate reply would be: "Does Not Apply!" Just so, the heredity of D.N.A. Does Not Apply to you; nor can it shackle your freedom-centered life with fear. The appearance of sinning mortal man is the "Trick" that would deceive us, and not just during Halloween season. The Treat is the Christian Science Treatment that reverses all tricks. As Citation S-23 states it:] "Jesus beheld in Science the perfect man, who appeared to him where sinning mortal man appears to mortals. In this perfect man the Saviour saw God's own likeness, and this correct view of man healed the sick. Thus Jesus taught that the kingdom of God is intact, universal, and that man is pure and holy." And citation S-27 continues the treatment: "The law of Christ or Truth, makes all things possible to Spirit, but the so-called laws of matter, would render Spirit of no avail and demand obedience to materialistic codes, thus departing from the basis of one God, one lawmaker."
The consistency and the simplicity of Mary Baker Eddy's faith in the First Commandment were demonstrated time and again in her healing work. Wonderful examples can be found in the biography, Mary Baker Eddy, Christian Healer. Here are links to purchase the audio or print version of this inspiring book. Or you can always visit your local Christian Science Reading Room to obtain a copy for purchase or possibly for loan.
Section 6 - God's man is sinless, perfect and blessed eternally.
A Bible-based Christian Science treatment of perfect God & perfect man continues as easy as 1, 2, 3:
1. "I will love thee, O Lord, my strength. The Lord is my rock, and my fortress, and my deliverer; With the merciful thou wilt shew thyself merciful; with an upright man thou wilt shew thyself upright; With the pure thou wilt shew thyself pure; It is God that girdeth me with strength, and maketh my way perfect." (B-19) | Psalms18:1, 2, 25- 26, 32
2. "Be ye therefore perfect, even as your Father which is in heaven is perfect." (B-20) |Matt.5:48
3. "The perfect man - governed by God, his perfect Principle - is sinless and eternal." (S-30) | 304:14
As The Message translation of Matthew 7 puts it in such a loving way, "If your child asks for bread, do you trick him with sawdust? If he asks for fish, do you scare him with a live snake on his plate? As bad as you are, you wouldn't think of such a thing. You're at least decent to your own children. So don't you think the God who conceived you in love will be even better?"
Our Father does love to make our way perfect, just like I love to make Martha's way a little easier. And that is not a way of everlasting punishment but everlasting Love, revealing our nature as the beloved and perfect child of God's creating.
As Hymn 278 from our Hymnal tells us
"Pilgrim on earth, home and heaven are within thee,
Heir of the ages and child of the day. Cared for, watched over, beloved and protected, Walk thou with courage each step of the way."
[These application ideas from a CedarS Camps' Resident Christian Science Practitioner are provided primarily to help CedarS campers and staff (as well as friends) see and demonstrate the great value of study and application of the Christian Science Bible lessons daily throughout the year, not just at camp! You can sign up to have them emailed to you free -- by Monday each week in English; or by each Wednesday you can get a FREE TRANSLATION: in German, thanks to Helga and Manfred; or in Spanish, thanks to a team of Ana, Erick, Claudia and Patricio. A voluntary French translation by Pascal or Denise cannot be guaranteed due to their busy schedules. An "official" version of the weekly Portuguese translation should be coming soon on a new webpage for CedarS Mets, but in the meantime you can email Orlando Trentini to be added to the list. YOU CAN ALSO SIGN UP for weekly emails from past CedarS staff of fun approaches & possible ways to teach lesson ideas to older and to younger Sunday School classes at www.cedarscamps.org/newsletters Warren Huff, CedarS Director & editor of these notes with bracketed, italic additions.]
[Additional Camp Director's Note: This sharing is the latest in an ongoing, 11-year series of CedarS Bible Lesson "Mets" (Metaphysical application ideas) contributed weekly by a rotation of CedarS Resident Practitioners and occasionally by other metaphysicians. (Ask and look for "Possible Sunday School Topics "and "Possible Younger Class Lessons" in subsequent emails.) These weekly offerings are intended to encourage further study and application of ideas in the lesson and to invigorate Sunday School participation by students and by the budding teachers on our staff. Originally sent JUST to my Sunday School students and to campers, staff and CedarS families who wanted to continue at home and in their home Sunday Schools the same type of focused Lesson study, application and inspiration they had felt at camp, CedarS lesson "mets "and Sunday School ideas are in no way meant to be definitive or conclusive or in any way a substitute for daily study of the lesson. The thoughts presented are the inspiration of the moment and are offered to give a bit more dimension and background as well as new angles (and angels) on the daily applicability of some of the ideas and passages being studied. The weekly Bible Lessons are copyrighted by the Christian Science Publishing Society and are printed in the Christian Science Quarterly as available at Christian Science Reading Rooms or online at eBibleLesson.com or myBibleLesson.com. The citations referenced (i.e.B-1 and S-28) from this week's Bible Lesson in the "Met" (Metaphysical application ideas) are taken from the Bible (B-1 thru B-24) and the Christian Science textbook, Science and Health With Key to the Scriptures by Mary Baker Eddy (S-1 thru S-30). The Bible and Science and Health are the ordained pastor of the Churches of Christ, Scientist. The Bible Lesson is the sermon read in Christian Science church services throughout the world. The Lesson-Sermon speaks individually through the Christ to everyone, providing unique insights and tailor-made applications for each one. We are glad you requested this metaphysical sharing and hope that you find some of the ideas helpful in your daily spiritual journey, in your deeper digging in the books and in closer bonding with your Comforter and Pastor.]
[Thanks for sending to the address below your appreciated & still needed gift to help support summer & fall programs that nurture the spiritual growth of Christian Science youth:
CedarS Camps, 19772 Sugar Drive, Lebanon, MO 65536
or call us at 417-532-6699]
[More websites of interest found by Rick relating to the Jonah story, ocean rescues...]
Phillipine man saved by dolphins and whales.
surfer saved by dolphin pod from great white shark attack.
Hardy Jones the dolphin defender.
|
Sunday, October 28, 2012
PDF
Testimony by
Roland H. Allen
I originally heard this testimony at the end of an Audio Recording of the article, God’s Law of Adjustment by Adam H.
Dickey. It was always a favorite. With the new resource of the Christian
Science Publishing Society, called:
Journal, Sentinel, Herald Online or JSHOnline you can find this
testimony and thousands and thousands more.
With an affordable subscription you can access all articles, poems, and
testimonies published in the Christian Science Journal, Sentinel, or
Herold. What a incredible resource.
On December 12, 1943, the first...
By Roland H. Allen
From the June 2, 1945 issue of the Christian
Science Sentinel
"On December 12, 1943, the first really cold day of the
winter, I was working at my wartime job as a shipfitter at New England's
largest shipyard. For several days I had been installing "swash lids"
on the fuel tanks of a large combat vessel. The fuel tanks of warships are
scattered along the bottom of the hull, occupying space not utilized for other
purposes, and separated from one another by bulkheads which are watertight and
fireproof.
The most difficult and tiring part of my work resulted from
this method of placement, as it necessitated much crawling through cramped
areas and numberless small openings known as "escape holes." I had to
pull an electric welding line over one hundred feet long to the many
compartments where lids were required, to carry a welder's shield, an extension
electric light cord, and a tool bag.
On this particular day I thought I was going to finish the
assignment by installing the last of thirty-nine lids, only to find when
checking my work list that somewhere I had missed one tank. This was very
discouraging, for, numb with cold from lying on the frigid steel, I was anxious
to get through and do some other work that would allow me to stand up and move
about.
I was tempted to leave the one lid undone and let someone
else do it when it was found incomplete. However, it was my habit to complete
my assignments before asking for another job. So I explored the whole ship's
bottom and found that the tank I had missed was the one I should have done
first, situated way up forward near the bow of the vessel.
I started installing the lid, which necessitated my getting
inside the tank through the "escape hole," an opening of fifteen by
twenty-three inches, because the "swash lids" open downward into the
tanks.
I had to weld the hinge on which the lid swung to the
interior of the tank and to the lid. In order to locate the hinge correctly and
to allow the lid to swing freely when opening and closing I had been instructed
always to bolt the lid in place with the thirty-six bolts required to hold it
and then weld on the hinge.
I tried to put the first bolt in place while holding the lid
on top of my head with one hand, but I was so numb with cold, and so tired from
crawling so far with my equipment, that I could not accomplish this simple act
until the eighth attempt. Finally, the threads of the first bolt caught and I
soon had enough bolts to hold the lid in place. Then when I looked for my
wrench to tighten the bolts, I discovered that somewhere along the way I had
dropped it. I was faced with the choice of taking the lid down and crawling
back through the inner-bottom of the ship until I found my wrench or going
ahead with the work by tightening the bolts as much as I could with my fingers
and welding the hinge on. I decided on the latter course.
When the welding was finished and I was ready to leave,
satisfied the work was properly done, I found that the bolts I had put on with
my fingers would not come out. The welding had caused a distortion of the steel
which had added a strain somewhere and I was a prisoner by my own hand.
Instantly sensing the seriousness of my position, I realized
I had to demonstrate for myself the truths I had so often professed. Many
aggressive mental suggestions came to my consciousness. I met each one with its
counterfact. The first scientific thought that came to me was the subject of
the Lesson-Sermon to be read in all Christian Science churches the next day,
"God the Preserver of Man."
I never let go of that one fact and I worked as I had been
taught. When Satan whispered, "You're alone and no help will come," I
knew that God was infinite, ever present, and that therefore I was not alone.
Again the whisper came: "It's four degrees above zero and it's now
Saturday noon. If you don't get out by three o'clock you will be here until
seven o'clock Monday morning. Do you think you'll survive?" Then the truth
came to my consciousness: "God is your Life; you cannot die."
A fierce mental battle was fought in my consciousness,
inside that cold tank. It was not ended easily or very rapidly. Aggressive
mental suggestions sought to gain control over me by fear. But, thank God, I
knew the counterfacts of every lie.
All the while I was striving to twist the bolts out with my
fingers, working at one then another to find one I could move. Picking up my
electric light to examine the bolts I saw threads of flesh clinging to the
heads of the bolts. Looking at my fingers, I saw the torn flesh. I had felt no
pain. My fear of imprisonment was greater than my sense of pain and
overshadowed it.
The devil prompted me to scream, to pound on the steel, to
seek another opening, to use my welding rod to burn the bolts off. But I knew
that no one could hear. Rivet guns were roaring down aft somewhere on the hull.
I started to crawl into the other compartment of the tank, but my fear of
leaving the comfort of my electric light, and the knowledge that there was no
other escape hole, put an end to that temptation. Wisdom told me: "You
have never tried burning a bolt away. It has been done, but you don't know how.
If you fail to burn it through and add weld to the bolt you'll be welded in."
I was still striving to twist the bolts out. It finally came
to me that I must stop my human efforts and trust wholly in God. It required an
actual physical effort to take my hands away from the bolts. But I finally put
them down in my lap, and then I spoke to God. I said, "God, I'm
listening." The change was wonderful. A message from an article written by
Adam H. Dickey entitled, "God's Law of Adjustment," came to me. The
statement was, "If a man were drowning in mid-ocean with apparently no
human help at hand, there is a law of God which, when rightly appealed to,
would bring about his rescue."
With this thought came absolute calmness, a sense of peace,
a certainty of God's nearness, a positive assurance of deliverance. I waited
and heard the direction, "Take out the pin in the hinge." Even as I
moved to obey, the dark angel said: "What good will that do? The bolts
hold the lid, not the hinge." But there was no contest. I knew the voice
that I would follow.
I removed the pin from the hinge, dropped my hands into my
lap, and waited. Again the voice came: "Take out the bolt at the
left." My fingers grasped the bolt at the left and strained to twist it.
It moved. I took a new hold, putting my whole effort into keeping it turning
until it came free. I continued removing one bolt after another until only one
remained that I could not move.
Again I dropped my hands to my lap and waited. The words of
a much loved hymn can best describe the amazement I felt as I say my
deliverance working out step by step,
"I was not ever thus, nor prayed that Thou
Shouldst lead me on;
I loved to choose and see my path; but now
Lead Thou me on."
Shouldst lead me on;
I loved to choose and see my path; but now
Lead Thou me on."
The angel voice said, "Pull down on the lid." The
lid bent as I pulled with all my strength so the hole was partly open. The
impulse came to try to wedge my way through. But the right thought came in
time: "Don't try that; you will get caught part way and be unable to go
ahead or back. Pull down again." This time there was more than the
strength of muscles. The threads were stripped from the bolt and the lid
crashed into my lap. I was free! Looking out into the dark inner bottom of the
ship, I saw my welding line and extension electric light cord winding back the
way I must go to get to the "escape trunk" and then up to the deck of
the ship. I had felt the need to see that the way was unobstructed.
Then I sat back in the tank and silently praised God,
rejoicing that Christian Science had given such power to men. I reviewed my
many blessings and counted not least among them the class instruction I had
received. My gratitude to Mrs. Eddy was profound and beyond words.
I installed the lid properly on the hinge and left the ship.
When I arrived home my wife met me and said, "I have been working all day
for you to come home safely." She had felt my need, and supplied it by
right knowing and persistent declarations of the truth about man. I was so
overcome with gratitude that it was hours before I could speak of what had
occurred.
No other experience has given me the sense of nearness to
God that I gained from this one. I felt His presence and followed His angels'
voices. I believe I have learned to recognize divine guidance.—Roland H.
Allen, West Newton, Massachusetts."
Saturday, February 25, 2012
Biographia
Hola, Rick Stewart aquí. Me alegro de que se detuvo por el. Como un científico cristiano de toda la vida me complace informar de que el mensaje de salvación del Evangelio no ha perdido nada de su poder. Que maravilloso mensaje de la humanidad el amor de Dios que abarca está vivo y bien. El ejemplo de Jesús y sus enseñanzas siguen siendo una fuente inagotable de inspiración, consuelo y sanación a todos los buscadores sinceros de la verdad. En 1977 abrí mi consultorio por primera vez como un practicante de la Ciencia Cristiana en mi ciudad natal, Ocala, Florida. En la década de 1980 di una conferencia en América del Norte y América del Sur en Inglés, español y portugués, en nombre de La Primera Iglesia de Cristo, Científico, en Boston, Massachusetts. En la década de 1990 he vivido y practicado en Palatka, Florida. Y en 1999, mi esposa Susanne y yo nos mudamos a su ciudad natal de Dresde, Alemania, para criar a nuestra familia. Sigo activo en la iglesia de la Ciencia cristiana local aquí en Dresde, donde Christian Science fue introducido por primera vez en Alemania en 1903. Mi tiempo completo Práctica de la Ciencia Cristiana se complementa con una vida maravillosamente todos los días con nuestros tres hijos y un perro maravilloso.
Rejoice in the "Empowe(her)ment" of Christ, WOW!
Rick Stewart, C.S., Dresden, Germany
Printable Version | PDF
| |
Rejoice in the "Empowe(her)ment" of Christ, WOW!
Metaphysical Application Ideas from the Cedars Camps:
for the Christian Science Bible Lesson on "Christ Jesus" for February 20 -- 26, 2012
by Rick Stewart C.S., of Dresden, Germany, (Telephone 49-351-312-4736, RickStewartCS@aol.com)
[These application ideas from a past CedarS Camps' Resident Christian Science Practitioner are provided primarily to help CedarS campers and staff (as well as friends) see and demonstrate the great value of study and application of the Christian Science Bible lessons daily throughout the year, not just at camp! You can sign up to have them emailed to you free -- by Monday each week in English; or by each Wednesday you can get a FREE TRANSLATION: in French, thanks to Pascal & Marie-Helene; in German, thanks to Helga and Manfred; or in Spanish, thanks to a team of Ana, Erick, Claudia and Patricio. YOU CAN ALSO SIGN UP for weekly emails from past CedarS staff of fun approaches & possible ways to teach lesson ideas to older and to younger Sunday School classes at www.cedarscamps.org/newsletters Enjoy! Warren Huff, CedarS Director & editor of these notes.]
WOW !!!! Women on Watch, maintaining our Master's church.
If any of you know our beloved and much appreciated newsletter editor, Warren Huff, Executive Director, of CedarS, you know how much he loves acronyms. (A word formed from the initial letters of other words.) Warren always has a wonderful list of acronyms that just make an idea stick in your thought. So in thinking about this Lesson, I thought of what I hope is a very accurate acronym, "WOW, Women on Watch." What fun to explore this week the life of our Master, Christ Jesus, from the perspective of a key element of Church, the contribution of the women that were looking for a Redeemer, a Saviour, and found one in the life of Christ Jesus.
Daughters of the Church, where would we be without them? For thousands of years they have been a source of practical, practiced religious education and inspiration. How many of us could testify to mothers and grandmothers that have taught us, encouraged us, and demonstrated to us the importance of learning about and loving God? I think of how my mom, my mother-in-law, my grand-mother-in-law, my aunts, my Sunday School teachers, my Christian Science teacher, and many other women have inspired me to know my Saviour better.
One of my favorite, "Gramma and church" stories came from a phone conversation with a fellow named, Tony Roberts. Back in 1986 I heard Tony share his testimony on television. I was so impressed that I called the television studio and asked for his number. I gave him a call. Tony told me of a dark time in his life. He had been a member of the Black Panther party, a radical Black activist group in the 1960's. He had been involved in drugs and violent crime. And he had hijacked a plane to Cuba. He was arrested and held in terrible conditions. He would work long hours in the sugar cane fields and then return to a horrible prison cell. He had no hope of ever being released. Then one night he found himself remembering his grandmother.
Tony remembered when he was 7 years old and his Gramma took him to church. Tony said he liked the way this memory made him feel. So, each day as he returned to his prison cell. Tony would try to remember everything he could about that time with his grandmother. Suddenly one night he heard a message, " I will not fail thee nor forsake thee."
Some of you might recognize that phrase as coming from the Bible, Joshua 1:5. It is in God's promise to Joshua that God will be with Joshua as He was with Moses. And God affirms, " I will not fail thee nor forsake thee." Now Tony, had never, ever studied the Bible. He had only gone to church with his Gramma. But when Tony heard that voice he liked the way it made him feel. And almost like someone inviting a guest for dinner, every night Tony would think about his Gramma, church, and the promise from that voice.
Suddenly things began to change around Tony. He had been told he would never leave that prison alive. But he was soon transferred to another prison that had much better conditions. Tony had been told he would never be returned to the United States. But he soon found himself on his way to prison in America. It might seem a funny thing to be happy about going to prison, but Tony was. Because the conditions he had in his cell in America were like heaven compared to Cuba. And he also had access to the Library and the Bible. He began to read the Bible. And his life continued to change. When I was talking to Tony in 1986 he was a free man, married, with a family, and active in church.
Hasn't the role of women always been a key to a Church that lives and saves. An honest and unprejudiced examination of Scripture, and specifically the Gospel narratives, makes it clear, without women, the Christian church would not and could not exist. And it most certainly would not exist in its vital, living, practical and practiced form of a Church that lives for a message, the saving, redeeming power of God's Love. When you think about the story of Tony, it might be interesting for you to know that the Hebrew name for Jesus is "Yeshua" or "Yehoshua", and it is identical with Joshua! And the name means to deliver, to rescue, to save.
http://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Yeshua_(name)
This week's Bible Lesson is an inspired document establishing the facts of "woman's" place in the mission of the Master. These inspiring women keeping watch and recognizing the Saviour, the Redeemer, the Christ. Let's see what the ladies have to say about the Master. WOW, Enjoy!
Golden Text:
Isaiah 62:11 ...."Say to Daughter Zion, ‘See, your Savior comes!' " (NIV)
According to the theologian, John Wesley,(Founder of Methodism), his Bible Commentary compiled 1754 -1765, identifies the phrase, "Daughter Zion," as referring to what we would call "the Church" and for the Jews, this church was the Temple at Jerusalem. http://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/John_Wesley
And also: http://www.biblestudytools.com/commentaries/wesleys-explanatory-notes/isaiah/isaiah-62.htmlStrength.
Those who wrote Chapter 62 in Isaiah were referring to the rebuilding of the "Temple " in Jerusalem, their church. This chapter and this portion of Isaiah were written by Jews who were released from exile in Babylon around 539 BCE. Cyrus the Great from Persia conquered Babylon. He freed the Jews that were living in Babylon in exile and sent them home with a mandate to rebuild Jerusalem and the Temple. With Cyrus' support, over the next 23 years, the work proceeded. "Daughter Zion" had been redeemed and saved. You can read about the rebuilding in Ezra, Chapters 1 - 6. Really interesting! Also there is lots of background information at the following links:
A Biblical History of Jerusalem
www.bibletopics.com/biblestudy/108.htm
http://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Book_of_Isaiah
In thinking of our Golden Text as the key to our Bible Lessons, it might be interesting here to consider what Mary Baker Eddy has to say about, "Zion." She writes in the glossary of Science and Health, page 598, "ZION. Spiritual foundation and superstructure; inspiration; spiritual strength."
In our Bible Lesson this week we will meet a number of women who according to the Bible found a place in Jesus' life. Each of them in individual ways glimpsed his fulfilling of the role as Saviour, Christ, Messiah. This glimpse gave their faith a foundation, a superstructure that resulted in physical healing, in redemption. And each of them joined in a faithful watch bearing witness to the fact that the Christ had come.
Responsive Reading:
In our Responsive Reading we meet our first female witness to the Christ at a well in the Samaritan town of Sychar. Jesus did not have to walk through Samaria, most honorable Jews would have gone to great lengths to avoid Samaria. The "Jews had no dealings with the Samaritans." It was noon, super hot. Most women would have been drawing water in the cooler time of day. Jesus was there because he knew she was coming. Her life was so messed up that she probably wanted to avoid contact with the respectable people. The accepted law also said the Master should not talk to a woman in public. But not only did Jesus talk to this sinning woman, (she had had five husbands and was living with another man unmarried,) Jesus offered the water that always refreshes, the water of life, a knowledge of God. And something else really interesting, Jesus tells the woman that he is actually the promised Messias or Christ ! (John 6:24) Have you realized that Jesus never directly stated this fact again until he stood before Pilate! What was it that made this woman so special to Jesus and you might say to us? "Is not this the Christ?" (John 4:29) She was so spiritually discerning that she readily admitted that this was "the Christ." That is a pretty darn good introduction to our "WOW" Lesson.
Section 1: - Mary, wow what a teenage mom! The conception and birth of Jesus.
I am sure it has occurred to you before that Mary must have been a teenage mom. The normal age of marriage in Judaism of that time was 12 or 13 years old. And also another note, we are told that "Mary was espoused to Joseph." The promise or betrothal at that time was actually more important than the wedding ceremony. It was serious. More than today's concept of "engagement." (See: http://www.myjewishlearning.com)
Obviously the conception and the birth of Jesus completely overturned the so-called laws of biological birth. As Mrs. Eddy writes in Science and Health (S-1) "The illumination of Mary's spiritual sense put to silence material law and its order of generation, and brought forth her child by the revelation of Truth, demonstrating God as the Father of men. " The facts surrounding Jesus' birth will always amaze mortal thought that is perhaps not ready to accept "that with God all things are possible." (Matt. 19:26, Mk. 10:27) After all even the author or authors of Isaiah found it incredible to contemplate, "Have you ever heard of a woman who gave birth to a child before having labor pains? Who ever heard of such a thing or imagined it could happen?" (B-2 Isaiah 66:7) CEV But it did! Another big, WOW.
But just to add a little balance, don't want you gals to get all the good press here. Wasn't Joseph a real "stand-up" guy? Even when the testimony looked pretty bad regarding his betrothed bride, he was a "just man, and not willing to make her a public example." (B-3) When God's angel appeared to him and assured him he did not have to be afraid, or we might say "embarrassed" to take Mary as his wife , because "that which is conceived in her is of the Holy Ghost. And she shall bring forth a son, and thou shalt call his name Jesus: for he shall save his people from their sins."
If I went on Mary and Joseph's Facebook page today, I would definitely give them both a "like" or thumbs up. They were both perceptive and tuned into spiritual sense. Just goes to show that both moms and dads can be on watch and receptive to the Christ.
Section 2: Anna, a prophetess, the daughter of Phanuel, of the tribe of Aser, WOW
This past week I had a talk with someone about retirement, time to stop work, time to take it easy. Do you really need to do that? I thought of that conversation as I read this section of the lesson. Here in (B-5, Luke 2) we are introduced to Anna. Anna worked or perhaps better "watched" in the Temple. She was 84 years old, did not leave the Temple, fasted and prayed and was continually watching for the "redemption," the saving of Jerusalem. What if she had retired when she was 83? What if Anna had said, "Oh it's time to let some of the younger girls take care of the church work." What would she have missed?
Mary and Joseph according to the Mosaic law from Leviticus 12, brought in six week old Jesus to the Temple in Jerusalem, "to present him to the Lord." (B-5)
Anna's response to Jesus
36 There was also a prophet, Anna the daughter of Phanuel, who belonged to the tribe of Asher. She was very old. After she married, she lived with her husband for seven years.37 She was now an eighty-four-year-old widow. She never left the temple area but worshipped God with fasting and prayer night and day. 38 She approached at that very moment and began to praise God and to speak about Jesus to everyone who was looking forward to the redemption of Jerusalem. (CEB)
Beside the "WOW," I have to add a "WTGA," Way to go, Anna !!! She watched and she saw her Saviour, her Redeemer, her Messiah, in the six week old baby, Jesus. Now that is real spiritual, feminine intuition. Good thing she stuck around to see that baby.
Section 3: Dinner with Jesus: Cherishing the Christ when others don't.
Here is the well known story of "Simon the Pharisee" inviting Jesus for dinner.
(B-8, Luke 7:36 -50) But what was Simon thinking, what were his motives, was it a sincere invitation? Normal courtesy of the time was not shown. No, Simon did not show Jesus the common courtesies of the day which included a kiss of greeting, washing the sandaled feet of road dust, and anointing the head with perfume because of the dry climate. Simon did not even provide water for Jesus to wash His own feet. Jesus pointed this out in Luke 7:44-46. So it is obvious Simon was not interested in honoring his guest. Instead he neglected his guest.
But Jesus was not neglected. Luke 7: 37" A woman in that town who lived a sinful life learned that Jesus was eating at the Pharisee's house, so she came there with an alabaster jar of perfume. 38 As she stood behind him at his feet weeping, she began to wet his feet with her tears. Then she wiped them with her hair, kissed them and poured perfume on them." (NIV)
This woman came with the intent to honor the Master. She knew that everyone around would know what kind of woman she was, but she did not let anyone deter her from showing her affection for Jesus. She was not shamed into inaction. And Jesus commended her, Luke 7:47 "Wherefore I say unto thee, her sins, which are many, are forgiven; for she loved much:"
The Science and Health citations, (S-9) - (S -12), are taken from the first pages of the Chapter, Christian Science Practice, (S&H, pages 362 - 365.) Mrs. Eddy explains how the affection shown by this woman for Jesus serves as the model for how we must love, to heal. WOW.
Section 4: Another, WOW, willing to risk all to be healed.
In this section we read of a woman willing to risk all to be healed by the Master. Her "issue of blood," had not been stopped in 12 years of normal medical treatment. She was desperate. Even though she was not allowed out in public by Hebrew law, she watched for Jesus, and when he was close she took her chance. In faith, she simply touched the hem of his robe and she was healed. Jesus sensed what had happened and asked, "Who touched my clothes?" The woman could have remained silent, but instead she came to Jesus and humbly told him all the truth. Jesus simply said, "Daughter, thy faith hath made thee whole; go in peace, and be whole of thy plague."
In the Science and Health citations of this section there is a clear explanation as to the "how" of this healing and all physical healing. And when I read this healing I always think of a favorite hymn based on a poem by John Greenleaf Whittier entitled, "The Healer" It is Hymn 96 in our hymnal and you can actually listen to it through the online edition of "Concord" produced by the Mother Church. Currently there is a free online trial of the Concord program at: https://www.concordworks.com/
Mary Baker Eddy , herself, was never hesitant in sharing the healing effect of Christian Science even in the early days of its development in her thought. This is evident in a visit she made to Whittier in 1868. The result of the visit was healing, the account is below.
"In 1868, Eddy was living in Amesbury with her student Sarah Bagley, a family friend of Whittier's. In July of that year they paid a call on the poet, who was suffering from a variety of ailments, as he had throughout most of his life. In previous months, he had written frequently to friends complaining of his precarious health, canceling engagements, and apologizing for not returning their letters sooner. In fact, when Sarah Bagley proposed the visit to Whittier, she did so with the warning that he might not live much longer. The two women arrived to find Whittier in a frail state, coughing constantly and shivering despite a roaring fire in midsummer. Mary Baker Eddy commented that it was likely a much more comfortable atmosphere outside than in, to which Whittier replied, "If Jesus Christ was in Amesbury, he would have to have brass-lined lungs to live here." (Manuscript A11063) Mary Baker Eddy spoke with him for some time, "in the line of Science," and by the end of their conversation he seemed much improved. As she left, Whittier called to her and said, "I thank you, Mary, for your call; it has done me much good." (A11063) She received word the next day that he had left his sickbed to walk down to the village." http://www.marybakereddylibrary.org/files/Newsletter%20Fall%2008.pdf
In 1875 Mrs. Eddy sent Whittier an inscribed copy of Science and Health. Whittier remarked that he found it to be a work that would require a lifetime's worth of study. That same copy of Science and Health was found among his belongings after his death. (Ibid.) Obviously he did not succumb back in 1868, but lived until 1892 and the ripe old age of 85 !!
.
(Hymn 96 )
John Greenleaf Whittier*
He stood of old, the holy Christ,
Amid the suffering throng,
With whom his lightest touch sufficed
To make the weakest strong.
That healing gift God gives to them
Who use it in His name;
The power that filled the garment's hem
Is evermore the same.
So shalt thou be with power endued
Like him who went about
The Syrian hillsides doing good
And casting demons out.
The Great Physician liveth yet
Thy friend and guide to be;
The Healer by Gennesaret
Shall walk the rounds with thee.
Section 5: Wow, solid in faith and love.
Pilate's wife cautioned him, "Have thou nothing to do with that just man." One might say, husbands listen to your wives. Pilate questioned Jesus, Are you King of the Jews? "Thou sayest that I am a king. To this end was I born and for this cause came I into the world, that I should bear witness to the truth. Everyone that is of the truth heareth my voice." Pilate saith, "What is truth?"
In Science and Health citation, (S-19) Mrs. Eddy writes, "The women at the cross could have answered Pilate's question. They knew what had inspired their devotion, winged their faith, opened the eyes of their understanding, healed the sick, cast out evil, and caused the disciples to say to their Master: "Even the devils are subject unto us through thy name."
These women stood by faithfully watching, they did not flee. Mary, Jesus' mother. His mother's sister. Mary the wife of Cleophas. Mary Magdalene. And with them, the disciple, "whom he loved" and to whom he gave the charge to care for his mother. These stood by because they had seen the love. They had seen the babe arrive in humble meekness. They had seen the young man question and speak with the doctors and lawyers. They had been healed, redeemed, saved, loved. So they stood by.
They did not yet see the final triumph of the Christ, but they would. They remained faithful disciples, the women on watch. Mrs. Eddy writes, (S-2, 52:19 -23) The "man of sorrows" best understood the nothingness of material life and intelligence and the mighty actuality of all-inclusive God, good. These were the two cardinal points of Mind-healing, or Christian Science, which armed him with Love." Their faithful watching would prepare them for this next demonstration. Story continued.
Section 6: WOW, spiritual love sees the risen Jesus.
Mary Magdalene went to the tomb to care for Jesus body, she left rejoicing in Jesus triumph over the body. He had risen from the grave. And when she told the disciples? They did not believe her. Do you think the disciples were embarrassed when Jesus stood before them? He scolded them, he reproached them, he gave them a hard time because they had not believed her. Did they try to talk their way out of it, did they just drop their heads in shame, or did they take the rebuke to heart? I think they took it to heart. After Jesus ascended (B-14. Mark 16:20) says, "And they went forth, and preached every where, the Lord working with them, and confirming the word with signs following."
Another woman who stood faithfully watching, Mary Baker Eddy, writes (S-22) "He proved Life to be deathless and Love to be the master of hate. He met and mastered on the basis of Christian Science, the power of Mind over matter, all the claims of medicine, surgery, and hygiene." (S-23, 314:10-22), "The Jews who sought to kill this man of God, showed plainly that their material views were the parents of their wicked deeds. When Jesus spoke of reproducing his body, -- knowing, as he did, that Mind was the builder, -- and said, "Destroy this temple, and in three days I will raise it up," they thought that he meant their material temple instead of his body.... This materialism lost sight of the true Jesus; but the faithful Mary saw him, and he presented to her, more than ever before, the true idea of Life and substance."
Section 7: Wow, seeing the risen Saviour and the eternal Christ.
(S-25, S&H page 561) "The Revelator beheld the spiritual idea from the mount of vision. John saw the human and divine coincidence, shown in the man Jesus, as divinity embracing humanity in Life and its demonstration, - reducing to human perception and understanding the Life which is God. In divine revelation, material and corporeal selfhood disappear, and the spiritual idea is understood."
How amazing that we continue to learn from the life of Jesus. So many years ago, and so few years among us and yet the story of Jesus lives. Over the last few days as I have worked on this MET I have heard from living witnesses that the Christ is active and still redeeming, saving, restoring. They are in Argentina, and America, in Europe and Africa, in Norway and England. Little babies and radiant Grannies. Like the rebuilding of the Temple in Jerusalem, Jesus lifted our hearts to see the rebuilding of a life seemingly destroyed by hate. The faithful women who stood by to the end of his mortal life, were witnesses to his resurrected life. And in his ongoing demonstration and dominion we are led to an eternal Christ. We witnessed the divinity of the Christ made manifest in the humanity of Jesus.
As we have seen in this week's lesson, our Master, Christ Jesus, was served well by those women who followed him in their lives. Often they were the most faithful and most discerning. From Mary, to Anna, to Mary Magdalene, to the Samaritan woman, to the woman healed by simply a touch, each discerned the Saviour, the Redeemer, the Christ.
And Wow, the Women on Watch, had a special addition as Mary Baker Eddy put on record the Science of the Christ, that Jesus demonstrated every day.
As Mrs. Eddy writes in citation (S-27, S&H 565), "The impersonation off the spiritual idea had a brief history in the earthly life of our Master; but "of his kingdom there shall be no end," for Christ, God's idea, will eventually rule all nations and peoples -- imperatively, absolutely, finally - with divine Science. This immaculate idea, represented first by man and, according to the Revelator, last by woman, will baptize with fire; and the fiery baptism will burn up the chaff of error with the fervent heat of Truth and Love, melting and purifying even the gold of human character."
And "Daughter Zion," the Temple built not of wood and stone, but of "spiritual foundation and superstructure," will be restored.
[If you've been blessed by any of CedarS 3 weekly inspirational newsletters (our Mets or our PSSTs & PYCLs for Sunday School teachers), Just click here to use a credit or debit card (Visa, Mastercard, American Express, or Discover card) or a virtual check to make very helpful monthly donations to CedarS (or to give one-time gifts) in support of spiritual growth. International supporters can give to CedarS via PayPal using built-in currency exchange rates by filling in an amount under International Donors and clicking on the "Donate Online" button.
[You can call us anytime at 636-394-6162 (or email to office@cedarscamps.org
to make a donation or to inquire about a custom CedarS experience for you, a Sunday School pupil or other loved one!]
[To send an actual check, please make it out to CedarS Camps and mail it to:
The CedarS Camps Office
1314 Parkview Valley Dr.
Ballwin, MO 63011]
[Help CedarS share the applicable principles of Christianity: Our Fall-season outreach led us to give tours of our new Bible Lands Park to show Bible-loving churches and youth groups of other denominations as well as our own how Christian Scientists love and "take the inspired Word of the Bible as our sufficient guide to eternal Life." (S&H497:3) As shown in video clips we are currently working in our Bible Lands Park to expand our ability to share applicable New Testament insights by building a trail with activity, learning stations that follow Paul's teachings and trips from Antioch to Ephesus, Corinth, Athens, Rome ... We welcome gifts to help us make these inspiring "Home Improvements" as weather allows.]
[Lastly please help us by telling "un-camped" children and families about CedarS being a wise and happy place for them to glimpse and demonstrate more of their spiritual natures! We'll gladly send anyone a DVD and info on CedarS financial aid forms; programs for all ages; 2012 session dates & rates; 2012 online enrollment; transportation... to help get them or anyone in your extended church family to camp!]
[Camp Director's Note: This sharing is the latest in an ongoing, 11-year series of CedarS Bible Lesson "Mets" (Metaphysical application ideas) contributed weekly by a rotation of CedarS Resident Practitioners and occasionally by other metaphysicians. (Ask and look for "Possible Sunday School Topics "and "Possible Younger Class Lessons" in subsequent emails.) These weekly offerings are intended to encourage further study and application of ideas in the lesson and to invigorate Sunday School participation by students and by the budding teachers on our staff. Originally sent JUST to my Sunday School students and to campers, staff and CedarS families who wanted to continue at home and in their home Sunday Schools the same type of focused Lesson study, application and inspiration they had felt at camp, CedarS lesson "mets "and Sunday School ideas are in no way meant to be definitive or conclusive or in any way a substitute for daily study of the lesson. The thoughts presented are the inspiration of the moment and are offered to give a bit more dimension and background as well as new angles (and angels) on the daily applicability of some of the ideas and passages being studied. The weekly Bible Lessons are copyrighted by the Christian Science Publishing Society and are printed in the Christian Science Quarterly as available at Christian Science Reading Rooms or online at eBibleLesson.com or myBibleLesson.com. The citations referenced (i.e.B-1 and S-28) from this week's Bible Lesson in the "Met" (Metaphysical application ideas) are taken from the Bible (B-1 thru B-24) and the Christian Science textbook, Science and Health With Key to the Scriptures by Mary Baker Eddy (S-1 thru S-30). The Bible and Science and Health are the ordained pastor of the Churches of Christ, Scientist. The Bible Lesson is the sermon read in Christian Science church services throughout the world. The Lesson-Sermon speaks individually through the Christ to everyone, providing unique insights and tailor-made applications for each one. We are glad you requested this metaphysical sharing and hope that you find some of the ideas helpful in your daily spiritual journey, in your deeper digging in the books and in closer bonding with your Comforter and Pastor.]
[Enjoy! And, please contact us for more info about "all things CedarS"!]
Rick Stewart, C.S., Dresden, Germany
Printable Version | PDF
| |
Rejoice in the "Empowe(her)ment" of Christ, WOW!
Metaphysical Application Ideas from the Cedars Camps:
for the Christian Science Bible Lesson on "Christ Jesus" for February 20 -- 26, 2012
by Rick Stewart C.S., of Dresden, Germany, (Telephone 49-351-312-4736, RickStewartCS@aol.com)
[These application ideas from a past CedarS Camps' Resident Christian Science Practitioner are provided primarily to help CedarS campers and staff (as well as friends) see and demonstrate the great value of study and application of the Christian Science Bible lessons daily throughout the year, not just at camp! You can sign up to have them emailed to you free -- by Monday each week in English; or by each Wednesday you can get a FREE TRANSLATION: in French, thanks to Pascal & Marie-Helene; in German, thanks to Helga and Manfred; or in Spanish, thanks to a team of Ana, Erick, Claudia and Patricio. YOU CAN ALSO SIGN UP for weekly emails from past CedarS staff of fun approaches & possible ways to teach lesson ideas to older and to younger Sunday School classes at www.cedarscamps.org/newsletters Enjoy! Warren Huff, CedarS Director & editor of these notes.]
WOW !!!! Women on Watch, maintaining our Master's church.
If any of you know our beloved and much appreciated newsletter editor, Warren Huff, Executive Director, of CedarS, you know how much he loves acronyms. (A word formed from the initial letters of other words.) Warren always has a wonderful list of acronyms that just make an idea stick in your thought. So in thinking about this Lesson, I thought of what I hope is a very accurate acronym, "WOW, Women on Watch." What fun to explore this week the life of our Master, Christ Jesus, from the perspective of a key element of Church, the contribution of the women that were looking for a Redeemer, a Saviour, and found one in the life of Christ Jesus.
Daughters of the Church, where would we be without them? For thousands of years they have been a source of practical, practiced religious education and inspiration. How many of us could testify to mothers and grandmothers that have taught us, encouraged us, and demonstrated to us the importance of learning about and loving God? I think of how my mom, my mother-in-law, my grand-mother-in-law, my aunts, my Sunday School teachers, my Christian Science teacher, and many other women have inspired me to know my Saviour better.
One of my favorite, "Gramma and church" stories came from a phone conversation with a fellow named, Tony Roberts. Back in 1986 I heard Tony share his testimony on television. I was so impressed that I called the television studio and asked for his number. I gave him a call. Tony told me of a dark time in his life. He had been a member of the Black Panther party, a radical Black activist group in the 1960's. He had been involved in drugs and violent crime. And he had hijacked a plane to Cuba. He was arrested and held in terrible conditions. He would work long hours in the sugar cane fields and then return to a horrible prison cell. He had no hope of ever being released. Then one night he found himself remembering his grandmother.
Tony remembered when he was 7 years old and his Gramma took him to church. Tony said he liked the way this memory made him feel. So, each day as he returned to his prison cell. Tony would try to remember everything he could about that time with his grandmother. Suddenly one night he heard a message, " I will not fail thee nor forsake thee."
Some of you might recognize that phrase as coming from the Bible, Joshua 1:5. It is in God's promise to Joshua that God will be with Joshua as He was with Moses. And God affirms, " I will not fail thee nor forsake thee." Now Tony, had never, ever studied the Bible. He had only gone to church with his Gramma. But when Tony heard that voice he liked the way it made him feel. And almost like someone inviting a guest for dinner, every night Tony would think about his Gramma, church, and the promise from that voice.
Suddenly things began to change around Tony. He had been told he would never leave that prison alive. But he was soon transferred to another prison that had much better conditions. Tony had been told he would never be returned to the United States. But he soon found himself on his way to prison in America. It might seem a funny thing to be happy about going to prison, but Tony was. Because the conditions he had in his cell in America were like heaven compared to Cuba. And he also had access to the Library and the Bible. He began to read the Bible. And his life continued to change. When I was talking to Tony in 1986 he was a free man, married, with a family, and active in church.
Hasn't the role of women always been a key to a Church that lives and saves. An honest and unprejudiced examination of Scripture, and specifically the Gospel narratives, makes it clear, without women, the Christian church would not and could not exist. And it most certainly would not exist in its vital, living, practical and practiced form of a Church that lives for a message, the saving, redeeming power of God's Love. When you think about the story of Tony, it might be interesting for you to know that the Hebrew name for Jesus is "Yeshua" or "Yehoshua", and it is identical with Joshua! And the name means to deliver, to rescue, to save.
http://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Yeshua_(name)
This week's Bible Lesson is an inspired document establishing the facts of "woman's" place in the mission of the Master. These inspiring women keeping watch and recognizing the Saviour, the Redeemer, the Christ. Let's see what the ladies have to say about the Master. WOW, Enjoy!
Golden Text:
Isaiah 62:11 ...."Say to Daughter Zion, ‘See, your Savior comes!' " (NIV)
According to the theologian, John Wesley,(Founder of Methodism), his Bible Commentary compiled 1754 -1765, identifies the phrase, "Daughter Zion," as referring to what we would call "the Church" and for the Jews, this church was the Temple at Jerusalem. http://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/John_Wesley
And also: http://www.biblestudytools.com/commentaries/wesleys-explanatory-notes/isaiah/isaiah-62.htmlStrength.
Those who wrote Chapter 62 in Isaiah were referring to the rebuilding of the "Temple " in Jerusalem, their church. This chapter and this portion of Isaiah were written by Jews who were released from exile in Babylon around 539 BCE. Cyrus the Great from Persia conquered Babylon. He freed the Jews that were living in Babylon in exile and sent them home with a mandate to rebuild Jerusalem and the Temple. With Cyrus' support, over the next 23 years, the work proceeded. "Daughter Zion" had been redeemed and saved. You can read about the rebuilding in Ezra, Chapters 1 - 6. Really interesting! Also there is lots of background information at the following links:
A Biblical History of Jerusalem
www.bibletopics.com/biblestudy/108.htm
http://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Book_of_Isaiah
In thinking of our Golden Text as the key to our Bible Lessons, it might be interesting here to consider what Mary Baker Eddy has to say about, "Zion." She writes in the glossary of Science and Health, page 598, "ZION. Spiritual foundation and superstructure; inspiration; spiritual strength."
In our Bible Lesson this week we will meet a number of women who according to the Bible found a place in Jesus' life. Each of them in individual ways glimpsed his fulfilling of the role as Saviour, Christ, Messiah. This glimpse gave their faith a foundation, a superstructure that resulted in physical healing, in redemption. And each of them joined in a faithful watch bearing witness to the fact that the Christ had come.
Responsive Reading:
In our Responsive Reading we meet our first female witness to the Christ at a well in the Samaritan town of Sychar. Jesus did not have to walk through Samaria, most honorable Jews would have gone to great lengths to avoid Samaria. The "Jews had no dealings with the Samaritans." It was noon, super hot. Most women would have been drawing water in the cooler time of day. Jesus was there because he knew she was coming. Her life was so messed up that she probably wanted to avoid contact with the respectable people. The accepted law also said the Master should not talk to a woman in public. But not only did Jesus talk to this sinning woman, (she had had five husbands and was living with another man unmarried,) Jesus offered the water that always refreshes, the water of life, a knowledge of God. And something else really interesting, Jesus tells the woman that he is actually the promised Messias or Christ ! (John 6:24) Have you realized that Jesus never directly stated this fact again until he stood before Pilate! What was it that made this woman so special to Jesus and you might say to us? "Is not this the Christ?" (John 4:29) She was so spiritually discerning that she readily admitted that this was "the Christ." That is a pretty darn good introduction to our "WOW" Lesson.
Section 1: - Mary, wow what a teenage mom! The conception and birth of Jesus.
I am sure it has occurred to you before that Mary must have been a teenage mom. The normal age of marriage in Judaism of that time was 12 or 13 years old. And also another note, we are told that "Mary was espoused to Joseph." The promise or betrothal at that time was actually more important than the wedding ceremony. It was serious. More than today's concept of "engagement." (See: http://www.myjewishlearning.com)
Obviously the conception and the birth of Jesus completely overturned the so-called laws of biological birth. As Mrs. Eddy writes in Science and Health (S-1) "The illumination of Mary's spiritual sense put to silence material law and its order of generation, and brought forth her child by the revelation of Truth, demonstrating God as the Father of men. " The facts surrounding Jesus' birth will always amaze mortal thought that is perhaps not ready to accept "that with God all things are possible." (Matt. 19:26, Mk. 10:27) After all even the author or authors of Isaiah found it incredible to contemplate, "Have you ever heard of a woman who gave birth to a child before having labor pains? Who ever heard of such a thing or imagined it could happen?" (B-2 Isaiah 66:7) CEV But it did! Another big, WOW.
But just to add a little balance, don't want you gals to get all the good press here. Wasn't Joseph a real "stand-up" guy? Even when the testimony looked pretty bad regarding his betrothed bride, he was a "just man, and not willing to make her a public example." (B-3) When God's angel appeared to him and assured him he did not have to be afraid, or we might say "embarrassed" to take Mary as his wife , because "that which is conceived in her is of the Holy Ghost. And she shall bring forth a son, and thou shalt call his name Jesus: for he shall save his people from their sins."
If I went on Mary and Joseph's Facebook page today, I would definitely give them both a "like" or thumbs up. They were both perceptive and tuned into spiritual sense. Just goes to show that both moms and dads can be on watch and receptive to the Christ.
Section 2: Anna, a prophetess, the daughter of Phanuel, of the tribe of Aser, WOW
This past week I had a talk with someone about retirement, time to stop work, time to take it easy. Do you really need to do that? I thought of that conversation as I read this section of the lesson. Here in (B-5, Luke 2) we are introduced to Anna. Anna worked or perhaps better "watched" in the Temple. She was 84 years old, did not leave the Temple, fasted and prayed and was continually watching for the "redemption," the saving of Jerusalem. What if she had retired when she was 83? What if Anna had said, "Oh it's time to let some of the younger girls take care of the church work." What would she have missed?
Mary and Joseph according to the Mosaic law from Leviticus 12, brought in six week old Jesus to the Temple in Jerusalem, "to present him to the Lord." (B-5)
Anna's response to Jesus
36 There was also a prophet, Anna the daughter of Phanuel, who belonged to the tribe of Asher. She was very old. After she married, she lived with her husband for seven years.37 She was now an eighty-four-year-old widow. She never left the temple area but worshipped God with fasting and prayer night and day. 38 She approached at that very moment and began to praise God and to speak about Jesus to everyone who was looking forward to the redemption of Jerusalem. (CEB)
Beside the "WOW," I have to add a "WTGA," Way to go, Anna !!! She watched and she saw her Saviour, her Redeemer, her Messiah, in the six week old baby, Jesus. Now that is real spiritual, feminine intuition. Good thing she stuck around to see that baby.
Section 3: Dinner with Jesus: Cherishing the Christ when others don't.
Here is the well known story of "Simon the Pharisee" inviting Jesus for dinner.
(B-8, Luke 7:36 -50) But what was Simon thinking, what were his motives, was it a sincere invitation? Normal courtesy of the time was not shown. No, Simon did not show Jesus the common courtesies of the day which included a kiss of greeting, washing the sandaled feet of road dust, and anointing the head with perfume because of the dry climate. Simon did not even provide water for Jesus to wash His own feet. Jesus pointed this out in Luke 7:44-46. So it is obvious Simon was not interested in honoring his guest. Instead he neglected his guest.
But Jesus was not neglected. Luke 7: 37" A woman in that town who lived a sinful life learned that Jesus was eating at the Pharisee's house, so she came there with an alabaster jar of perfume. 38 As she stood behind him at his feet weeping, she began to wet his feet with her tears. Then she wiped them with her hair, kissed them and poured perfume on them." (NIV)
This woman came with the intent to honor the Master. She knew that everyone around would know what kind of woman she was, but she did not let anyone deter her from showing her affection for Jesus. She was not shamed into inaction. And Jesus commended her, Luke 7:47 "Wherefore I say unto thee, her sins, which are many, are forgiven; for she loved much:"
The Science and Health citations, (S-9) - (S -12), are taken from the first pages of the Chapter, Christian Science Practice, (S&H, pages 362 - 365.) Mrs. Eddy explains how the affection shown by this woman for Jesus serves as the model for how we must love, to heal. WOW.
Section 4: Another, WOW, willing to risk all to be healed.
In this section we read of a woman willing to risk all to be healed by the Master. Her "issue of blood," had not been stopped in 12 years of normal medical treatment. She was desperate. Even though she was not allowed out in public by Hebrew law, she watched for Jesus, and when he was close she took her chance. In faith, she simply touched the hem of his robe and she was healed. Jesus sensed what had happened and asked, "Who touched my clothes?" The woman could have remained silent, but instead she came to Jesus and humbly told him all the truth. Jesus simply said, "Daughter, thy faith hath made thee whole; go in peace, and be whole of thy plague."
In the Science and Health citations of this section there is a clear explanation as to the "how" of this healing and all physical healing. And when I read this healing I always think of a favorite hymn based on a poem by John Greenleaf Whittier entitled, "The Healer" It is Hymn 96 in our hymnal and you can actually listen to it through the online edition of "Concord" produced by the Mother Church. Currently there is a free online trial of the Concord program at: https://www.concordworks.com/
Mary Baker Eddy , herself, was never hesitant in sharing the healing effect of Christian Science even in the early days of its development in her thought. This is evident in a visit she made to Whittier in 1868. The result of the visit was healing, the account is below.
"In 1868, Eddy was living in Amesbury with her student Sarah Bagley, a family friend of Whittier's. In July of that year they paid a call on the poet, who was suffering from a variety of ailments, as he had throughout most of his life. In previous months, he had written frequently to friends complaining of his precarious health, canceling engagements, and apologizing for not returning their letters sooner. In fact, when Sarah Bagley proposed the visit to Whittier, she did so with the warning that he might not live much longer. The two women arrived to find Whittier in a frail state, coughing constantly and shivering despite a roaring fire in midsummer. Mary Baker Eddy commented that it was likely a much more comfortable atmosphere outside than in, to which Whittier replied, "If Jesus Christ was in Amesbury, he would have to have brass-lined lungs to live here." (Manuscript A11063) Mary Baker Eddy spoke with him for some time, "in the line of Science," and by the end of their conversation he seemed much improved. As she left, Whittier called to her and said, "I thank you, Mary, for your call; it has done me much good." (A11063) She received word the next day that he had left his sickbed to walk down to the village." http://www.marybakereddylibrary.org/files/Newsletter%20Fall%2008.pdf
In 1875 Mrs. Eddy sent Whittier an inscribed copy of Science and Health. Whittier remarked that he found it to be a work that would require a lifetime's worth of study. That same copy of Science and Health was found among his belongings after his death. (Ibid.) Obviously he did not succumb back in 1868, but lived until 1892 and the ripe old age of 85 !!
.
(Hymn 96 )
John Greenleaf Whittier*
He stood of old, the holy Christ,
Amid the suffering throng,
With whom his lightest touch sufficed
To make the weakest strong.
That healing gift God gives to them
Who use it in His name;
The power that filled the garment's hem
Is evermore the same.
So shalt thou be with power endued
Like him who went about
The Syrian hillsides doing good
And casting demons out.
The Great Physician liveth yet
Thy friend and guide to be;
The Healer by Gennesaret
Shall walk the rounds with thee.
Section 5: Wow, solid in faith and love.
Pilate's wife cautioned him, "Have thou nothing to do with that just man." One might say, husbands listen to your wives. Pilate questioned Jesus, Are you King of the Jews? "Thou sayest that I am a king. To this end was I born and for this cause came I into the world, that I should bear witness to the truth. Everyone that is of the truth heareth my voice." Pilate saith, "What is truth?"
In Science and Health citation, (S-19) Mrs. Eddy writes, "The women at the cross could have answered Pilate's question. They knew what had inspired their devotion, winged their faith, opened the eyes of their understanding, healed the sick, cast out evil, and caused the disciples to say to their Master: "Even the devils are subject unto us through thy name."
These women stood by faithfully watching, they did not flee. Mary, Jesus' mother. His mother's sister. Mary the wife of Cleophas. Mary Magdalene. And with them, the disciple, "whom he loved" and to whom he gave the charge to care for his mother. These stood by because they had seen the love. They had seen the babe arrive in humble meekness. They had seen the young man question and speak with the doctors and lawyers. They had been healed, redeemed, saved, loved. So they stood by.
They did not yet see the final triumph of the Christ, but they would. They remained faithful disciples, the women on watch. Mrs. Eddy writes, (S-2, 52:19 -23) The "man of sorrows" best understood the nothingness of material life and intelligence and the mighty actuality of all-inclusive God, good. These were the two cardinal points of Mind-healing, or Christian Science, which armed him with Love." Their faithful watching would prepare them for this next demonstration. Story continued.
Section 6: WOW, spiritual love sees the risen Jesus.
Mary Magdalene went to the tomb to care for Jesus body, she left rejoicing in Jesus triumph over the body. He had risen from the grave. And when she told the disciples? They did not believe her. Do you think the disciples were embarrassed when Jesus stood before them? He scolded them, he reproached them, he gave them a hard time because they had not believed her. Did they try to talk their way out of it, did they just drop their heads in shame, or did they take the rebuke to heart? I think they took it to heart. After Jesus ascended (B-14. Mark 16:20) says, "And they went forth, and preached every where, the Lord working with them, and confirming the word with signs following."
Another woman who stood faithfully watching, Mary Baker Eddy, writes (S-22) "He proved Life to be deathless and Love to be the master of hate. He met and mastered on the basis of Christian Science, the power of Mind over matter, all the claims of medicine, surgery, and hygiene." (S-23, 314:10-22), "The Jews who sought to kill this man of God, showed plainly that their material views were the parents of their wicked deeds. When Jesus spoke of reproducing his body, -- knowing, as he did, that Mind was the builder, -- and said, "Destroy this temple, and in three days I will raise it up," they thought that he meant their material temple instead of his body.... This materialism lost sight of the true Jesus; but the faithful Mary saw him, and he presented to her, more than ever before, the true idea of Life and substance."
Section 7: Wow, seeing the risen Saviour and the eternal Christ.
(S-25, S&H page 561) "The Revelator beheld the spiritual idea from the mount of vision. John saw the human and divine coincidence, shown in the man Jesus, as divinity embracing humanity in Life and its demonstration, - reducing to human perception and understanding the Life which is God. In divine revelation, material and corporeal selfhood disappear, and the spiritual idea is understood."
How amazing that we continue to learn from the life of Jesus. So many years ago, and so few years among us and yet the story of Jesus lives. Over the last few days as I have worked on this MET I have heard from living witnesses that the Christ is active and still redeeming, saving, restoring. They are in Argentina, and America, in Europe and Africa, in Norway and England. Little babies and radiant Grannies. Like the rebuilding of the Temple in Jerusalem, Jesus lifted our hearts to see the rebuilding of a life seemingly destroyed by hate. The faithful women who stood by to the end of his mortal life, were witnesses to his resurrected life. And in his ongoing demonstration and dominion we are led to an eternal Christ. We witnessed the divinity of the Christ made manifest in the humanity of Jesus.
As we have seen in this week's lesson, our Master, Christ Jesus, was served well by those women who followed him in their lives. Often they were the most faithful and most discerning. From Mary, to Anna, to Mary Magdalene, to the Samaritan woman, to the woman healed by simply a touch, each discerned the Saviour, the Redeemer, the Christ.
And Wow, the Women on Watch, had a special addition as Mary Baker Eddy put on record the Science of the Christ, that Jesus demonstrated every day.
As Mrs. Eddy writes in citation (S-27, S&H 565), "The impersonation off the spiritual idea had a brief history in the earthly life of our Master; but "of his kingdom there shall be no end," for Christ, God's idea, will eventually rule all nations and peoples -- imperatively, absolutely, finally - with divine Science. This immaculate idea, represented first by man and, according to the Revelator, last by woman, will baptize with fire; and the fiery baptism will burn up the chaff of error with the fervent heat of Truth and Love, melting and purifying even the gold of human character."
And "Daughter Zion," the Temple built not of wood and stone, but of "spiritual foundation and superstructure," will be restored.
[If you've been blessed by any of CedarS 3 weekly inspirational newsletters (our Mets or our PSSTs & PYCLs for Sunday School teachers), Just click here to use a credit or debit card (Visa, Mastercard, American Express, or Discover card) or a virtual check to make very helpful monthly donations to CedarS (or to give one-time gifts) in support of spiritual growth. International supporters can give to CedarS via PayPal using built-in currency exchange rates by filling in an amount under International Donors and clicking on the "Donate Online" button.
[You can call us anytime at 636-394-6162 (or email to office@cedarscamps.org
to make a donation or to inquire about a custom CedarS experience for you, a Sunday School pupil or other loved one!]
[To send an actual check, please make it out to CedarS Camps and mail it to:
The CedarS Camps Office
1314 Parkview Valley Dr.
Ballwin, MO 63011]
[Help CedarS share the applicable principles of Christianity: Our Fall-season outreach led us to give tours of our new Bible Lands Park to show Bible-loving churches and youth groups of other denominations as well as our own how Christian Scientists love and "take the inspired Word of the Bible as our sufficient guide to eternal Life." (S&H497:3) As shown in video clips we are currently working in our Bible Lands Park to expand our ability to share applicable New Testament insights by building a trail with activity, learning stations that follow Paul's teachings and trips from Antioch to Ephesus, Corinth, Athens, Rome ... We welcome gifts to help us make these inspiring "Home Improvements" as weather allows.]
[Lastly please help us by telling "un-camped" children and families about CedarS being a wise and happy place for them to glimpse and demonstrate more of their spiritual natures! We'll gladly send anyone a DVD and info on CedarS financial aid forms; programs for all ages; 2012 session dates & rates; 2012 online enrollment; transportation... to help get them or anyone in your extended church family to camp!]
[Camp Director's Note: This sharing is the latest in an ongoing, 11-year series of CedarS Bible Lesson "Mets" (Metaphysical application ideas) contributed weekly by a rotation of CedarS Resident Practitioners and occasionally by other metaphysicians. (Ask and look for "Possible Sunday School Topics "and "Possible Younger Class Lessons" in subsequent emails.) These weekly offerings are intended to encourage further study and application of ideas in the lesson and to invigorate Sunday School participation by students and by the budding teachers on our staff. Originally sent JUST to my Sunday School students and to campers, staff and CedarS families who wanted to continue at home and in their home Sunday Schools the same type of focused Lesson study, application and inspiration they had felt at camp, CedarS lesson "mets "and Sunday School ideas are in no way meant to be definitive or conclusive or in any way a substitute for daily study of the lesson. The thoughts presented are the inspiration of the moment and are offered to give a bit more dimension and background as well as new angles (and angels) on the daily applicability of some of the ideas and passages being studied. The weekly Bible Lessons are copyrighted by the Christian Science Publishing Society and are printed in the Christian Science Quarterly as available at Christian Science Reading Rooms or online at eBibleLesson.com or myBibleLesson.com. The citations referenced (i.e.B-1 and S-28) from this week's Bible Lesson in the "Met" (Metaphysical application ideas) are taken from the Bible (B-1 thru B-24) and the Christian Science textbook, Science and Health With Key to the Scriptures by Mary Baker Eddy (S-1 thru S-30). The Bible and Science and Health are the ordained pastor of the Churches of Christ, Scientist. The Bible Lesson is the sermon read in Christian Science church services throughout the world. The Lesson-Sermon speaks individually through the Christ to everyone, providing unique insights and tailor-made applications for each one. We are glad you requested this metaphysical sharing and hope that you find some of the ideas helpful in your daily spiritual journey, in your deeper digging in the books and in closer bonding with your Comforter and Pastor.]
[Enjoy! And, please contact us for more info about "all things CedarS"!]
Subscribe to:
Posts (Atom)
