“Suppose a mental case to be on trial, as cases are tried in court…
…Personal Sense is the plaintiff. Mortal Man is the defendant…
…Mortal Minds, Materia Medica, Anatomy, Physiology, Hypnotism, Envy, Greed and Ingratitude, constitute the jury…”
This allegory that starts on page 430 of Science and Health written by Mary Baker Eddy has been difficult for me to understand over the years and I used to avoid it but since coming to Plainfield and being taught Christian Science correctly I appreciate the purpose of it more each time. Having it in the lesson this week caught my attention.
Websters 1828:
plaintiff: “opposed to defendant”
(Personal sense is not my friend- pride, self will, self pity, belief selfhood apart from God, etc. I am grateful for the teaching here helping us let it go for, “man’s spiritual and eternal individuality” S.&H.)
defendant: “he that is summoned into court, and defends, denies or opposes the demand or charge, and maintains his own right”
(“The Court of Spirit, where Christian Science is allowed to appear as counsel…” is where I will find my freedom and rights. It will never be found, no matter how promising, in psychology, medicine, new thought, human intelligence or matter)
jury: “empaneled and sworn to inquire into and try any matter of fact, and to declare the truth on the evidence given them in the case”
(“The Jury of Spiritual Senses” is where I want my thinking to be -focused on God, obedience to His will, gratitude, joy, good will, love)
Today the words, “Envy, Greed and Ingratitude” stood out to me. It was a strong reminder to me to check my attitude moment by moment, to watch that it does not fall away. I ask myself do my actions and feelings express true gratitude for God and His creation?