In the current vernacular, we all want “to be seen.”  In the majority of cases, this simple desire is answered by courtesy, consideration, being appreciated.  When we recognize someone’s dignity, we have shown that we value them, respect them.  We prove that in lifting up one, we rise up together.  The leavening effect of respect is evident when we see it in action.  For the month of June, the Christly sense of respect and its power to transform our lives is our prayerful focus.  The Reading Room thanks you.…

Are we a Martha or a Mary? When Jesus came to visit his friends, Martha rushed about preparing the meal for her honored guest, then turned to Jesus, asking him to tell Mary to help her serve, because she was doing it all alone. Mary had been at Jesus’ feet, listening to his teaching. Jesus gently responded, “Martha, Martha, thou are careful and troubled about many things. But one thing is needful, and Mary has chosen that good part, which shall not be taken away from her.” (Luke 10:41, 42) Let us each be certain that we are not so absorbed in the mechanics of our tasks, that we fail to see the spiritual illumination of their purpose. During May the Reading Room enjoins us to step away from busyness to inspired doing.…

When we examine the ministry of Christ Jesus, we note that many who benefited from his healing touch were earnest seekers from modest circumstances, sincerely seeking to be free of whatever bound them. The Magdalene washed his feet with her tears, parents besought him on behalf of their children, a suffering woman quietly touched his garment’s hem in a swirling crowd. The common thread in these healing events was the humble thought of the one in need. These open hearts were rewarded with healing, and also were lifted up to recognize their worth as loved children of God. This month the Reading Room challenges us to not only feel the sweet peace of humility, but to extend this uplifting hand to everyone around us.…

“When the destination is desirable, expectation speeds our progress.” (Science and Health, page 426:8-9) What a heartening prospect, to know that our advancement towards our goals is helped onward by our conviction that we will reach them. This assurance comes from our certainty that divine Mind is supplying us with the talents, opportunities, and vision to fulfill our hopes. The importance of a utilizing the power of spiritual expectation is the Reading Room’s task for us in March.…

What are the advantages to the spiritual sense of yielding?  Christ Jesus is the ultimate example of a life given to God.  He said at various times, “I can of mine own self do nothing…” (John 5:30) and : “Nevertheless, not my will, but Thine be done.” (Luke 22:42)  He completely surrendered his will and opinions to divine Mind, confident that his Father-Mother’s higher wisdom would guide him rightly.  Mary Baker Eddy describes Jesus as “…the best man that ever trod this planet.”  (Science and Health, p, 363:31)  As we explore the topic of yielding during February, delve into Christ Jesus’ life for instruction in this pivotal approach to spiritual growth.  The Reading Room looks forward to your fruitage.…

What is the deeper meaning of fellowship, that takes it beyond simple friendship? In Science and Health with Key to the Scriptures, Mary Baker Eddy gives this explanation. “When the divine precepts are understood, they unfold the foundation of fellowship, in which one mind is not at war with another, but all have one Spirit, God, one intelligent source, in accordance with the Scriptural command, “Let this Mind be in you, which was also in Christ Jesus.” (SH 276:4-9) Contemplate the deep meaning of what binds us together as Christians in our purpose and lives as January progresses. Many thanks from the Reading Room.…

God’s love is continually pouring out to us, providing everything we need to have dominion and freedom. This expression of grace is a form of redemption. Yet in our human experience, we must realize it is present, open our hearts to it, and make the consecrated effort to live the Christly qualities that will restore us to harmony in thought and action. This process is vital to our spiritual growth. Let us use December to contemplate what redemption means and prepare for a year filled with revelation. Many thanks from the Reading Room.…

The plight of homelessness can present a seemingly insurmountable problem. The causes seem complex, and the answers tenuous. When the Israelites were far from their homeland, desolate and fearful, the prophet Jeremiah reassured them with God’s promise, “For I know the thoughts that I think toward you, saith the Lord, thoughts of peace and not of evil, to give you and expected end.” (Jer. 29:11) That expected end of security, which home represents, it always ours. We are asked by the Reading Room to solidly support those who seek a home and the safety it provides.…

“Long has thou stood, O church of God,” begins a hymn from the Christian Science Hymnal (176).  This hymn goes on to remind us that church is built upon timeless rock, bringing light and clarity to all who find refuge there.  It speaks of us, the members, as “living stones we, each in his place.”  Imagine yourself as a sturdy, strong example of Truth, living and proving the power of Church in your daily life.  In gratitude for church, let us give the month of September to cherishing and participating in church.…

“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.” (Science and Health, p. 518:15-18). This passage reminds us that material wealth is not necessarily the answer to an impoverished situation. Being rich in spirit equips one with the ability to lift others from hopelessness and lack, discerning their innate dignity and purpose. Our Reading Room prayer topic of poverty gives us the opportunity this month to reach out to our brother.…