On a planet marked by conflicts, global unrest, and pervasive hunger, the calls for assistance are painful to hear and louder than ever. As nations grapple with political strife, economic disparities, and environmental challenges, the imperative to extend a helping hand to one another becomes increasingly urgent. From the vantage point of the Church of Christ, Scientist, rooted in the teachings of Mary Baker Eddy and the wisdom of biblical principles, the obligation to aid our fellow beings emerges as a fundamental tenet of faith and humanity.
In the midst of turmoil and suffering, the words of Mary Baker Eddy, the founder of Christian Science, resonate deeply. In her seminal work, “Science and Health with Key to the Scriptures,” Eddy expounds on the spiritual laws that establish human existence and our interconnectedness with one another. She emphasizes the importance of love, compassion, and practical assistance in navigating the challenges of life.
Eddy underscores the significance of selflessness and altruism, asserting, “In divine Science, where prayers are mental, all may avail themselves of God as ‘a very present help in trouble’. Love is impartial and universal in its adaptation and bestowals” (Science and Health, p. 13:1-3). Here, she articulates the idea that through the understanding of divine principles, individuals can access spiritual resources to aid not only themselves but also those in need. This recognition of the universality of divine assistance underscores the imperative for individuals to extend support and care to one another.
Eddy also explains the transformative power of love in healing and uplifting humanity. She writes, “ ‘Love one another’
(l John, iii.23), is the most simple and profound counsel of the inspired writer. In Science we are children of God; but whatever is of material sense, or mortal, belongs to His children, for materiality is the inverted image of spirituality. (Science and Health, p. 572:5-11). This profound insight underscores the centrality of love as the guiding force in human interactions and underscores our collective responsibility to foster a climate of compassion and empathy.
From a biblical perspective, the injunction to help one another is woven throughout the scriptures. The Bible repeatedly emphasizes the importance of caring for the marginalized, feeding the hungry, and advocating for justice. In the Gospel of Matthew, Jesus exhorts his followers, stating, “For I was hungry and you gave me food, I was thirsty and you gave me drink, I was a stranger and you welcomed me” (Matthew 25:35, ESV). This admonition underscores the moral imperative to extend assistance to those in need, regardless of their circumstances or background.
The biblical narrative is overflowing with examples of individuals who exemplified compassion and altruism in their interactions with others. The story of the Good Samaritan, recounted in the Gospel of Luke, underscores the universal call to extend aid and relief to those who are suffering (Luke 10:25-37).
Are you feeling, in light of the current global challenges, the imperative to help one another? The ongoing conflicts, humanitarian crises, and socio-economic disparities underscore the urgent need for collective action and solidarity. As members of the global community, we are called to transcend our differences and extend a hand of friendship and support to those in need.
In conclusion, the obligation to help each other, grounded in the teachings of Mary Baker Eddy and the timeless wisdom of biblical principles, constitutes a cornerstone of our shared humanity. In a world plagued with strife and hardship, the imperative to cultivate love, compassion, and practical assistance remains as crucial as ever. As we navigate the complexities of existence, let us heed the call to embody the spirit of solidarity and mutual aid, recognizing that in lifting others, we ultimately uplift ourselves.
Through our collective efforts, may we forge a more compassionate and just world, where the inherent dignity and worth of every individual are upheld and celebrated.
References:
Eddy, Mary Baker. Science and Health with Key to the Scriptures.
The Holy Bible, English Standard Version.
