At the moment, it would seem that the world is politically quite polarised. In the media more attention is paid to the things that divide us than to the things that unit us. Sentiments are felt strongly resulting in divisions even within families. With US election fresh in thought and the expectation of an election in Australia early this year, this discussion is very timely. David and Mark share ideas on how we as individuals can support a genuine sense of unity and peace.
The rich in spirit help the poor in one grand brotherhood, all having the same Principle, or Father; and blessed is that man who seeth his brother’s need and supplieth it, seeking his own in another’s good.
True forgiveness – is it possible? If someone has really hurt you in ways that seem impossible to ignore, is it necessary to forgive them? Is it actually possible?
Jesus is quoted as saying (Matt 5: 38,44) Ye have heard that it hat been said, An eye for an eye, and a tooth for a tooth: … But I say unto you, Love your enemies, bless them that curse you, do good to them that hate you, and pray for them which despitefully use you, and persecute you; Why did he say this? Is it realistic? Is it wisdom?
We don’t ever have to condone or excuse unacceptable behaviour. It is only right that laws and courts deal with unlawful behaviour but world events tell us that ‘an eye for an eye’ thinking does not bring peace.
In this same passage, Jesus goes on to say that we are the children of God – God who is Love. Our true nature then is loving. This gives us the strength to move beyond hurts. When you truly know who you are, it is possible to find your freedom from negative, limiting feelings. Hurt and resentment fall away in the knowledge that you are the loved and loving child of God.
We should remember that the world is wide; that there are a thousand million different human wills, opinions, ambitions, tastes, and loves; that each person has a different history, constitution, culture, character, from all the rest; … we should go forth into life with the smallest expectations, but with the largest patience; with a keen relish for and appreciation of everything beautiful, great, and good, but with a temper so genial that the friction of the world shall not wear upon our sensibilities; … determined not to be offended when no wrong is meant, nor even when it is, unless the offense be against God. (Miscellaneous Writings p223)
This is how we find our peace.
This article was contributed by a member of the Christian Science community in Canberra.
This recording is of the readings on the topic: Laws That Bring Peace.
“Thou shalt have no other gods before me.” (Exodus xx. 3.) … One infinite God, good, unifies men and nations; constitutes the brotherhood of man; ends wars; fulfils the Scripture, “Love thy neighbor as thyself;” annihilates pagan and Christian idolatry, — whatever is wrong in social, civil, criminal, political, and religious codes; equalizes the sexes; annuls the curse on man, and leaves nothing that can sin, suffer, be punished or destroyed.
Christian Science Canberra 