  Beloved Pastor and Brethren:—“As in water face answereth to face,” and in love continents clasp hands, so the oneness of God includes also His presence with those [5] whose hearts unite in the purposes of goodness. Of this we may be sure: that thoughts winged with peace and love breathe a silent benediction over all the earth, co- operate with the divine power, and brood unconsciously o'er the work of His hand. [10] I, as a corporeal person, am not in your midst: I, as a dictator, arbiter, or ruler, am not present; but I, as a mother whose heart pulsates with every throb of theirs for the welfare of her children, am present, and rejoice with them that rejoice. [15] May meekness, mercy, and love dwell forever in the hearts of those who worship in this tabernacle: then will they receive the heritage that God has prepared for His people,—made ready for the pure in affection, the meek in spirit, the worshipper in truth, the follower of [20] good. Thus founded upon the rock of Christ, when storm and tempest beat against this sure foundation, you, safely sheltered in the strong tower of hope, faith, and Love, are God's nestlings; and He will hide you in His [25] feathers till the storm has passed. Into His haven of Soul there enters no element of earth to cast out angels, to silence the right intuition which guides you safely home. Exercise more faith in God and His spiritual means [30] and methods, than in man and his material ways and [1] means, of establishing the Cause of Christian Science. If right yourself, God will confirm His inheritance. “Be not weary in well doing.” Truth is restful, and Love is triumphant. [5] When God went forth before His people, they were fed with manna: they marched through the wilderness: they passed through the Red Sea, untouched by the bil- lows. At His command, the rock became a fountain; and the land of promise, green isles of refreshment. In [10] the words of the Psalmist, when “the Lord gave the word: great was the company of those that published it.” God is good to Israel,—washed in the waters of Meribah, cleansed of the flesh,—good to His Israel encompassed not with pride, hatred, self-will, and self- [15] justification; wherein violence covereth men as a gar- ment, and as captives are they enchained. Christian Scientists bring forth the fruits of Spirit, not flesh; and God giveth this “new name” to no man who honors Him not by positive proof of trustworthiness. [20] May you be able to say, “I have not cleansed my heart in vain.” Sir Edwin Arnold, to whom I presented a copy of my first edition of “Science and Health with Key to the Scriptures,” writes:— [25] Peace on earth and Good-will! Souls that are gentle and still Hear the first music of this Far-off, infinite, Bliss! So may the God of peace be and abide with this church. [30] Affectionately yours, Mary Baker Eddy |
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