Our Most Valuable Key

                                          John Robert Howell


   
        A key is a tool, not an objet d'art or a talisman to be ritualistically thumbed in purse or pocket.  If it isn't used to unlock or activiate something, a key serves no purpose.  We often think of the textbook of Christian Science simply as Science and Health, but we know it is also with Key to the Scriptures.  That key is not a metaphysical abstraction.

        Mrs. Eddy obviously intended the Key to the Scriptures to be used to unlock the spiritual meaning, the inspired Word of the Bible.  The first tenet of Christian Science states:  "As adherents of Truth, we take the inspired Word of the Bible as our sufficient guide to eternal Life."  (S&H 497:3)  Keys are to something; not ends in themselves.

        Mortal mind will try to keep diligent as well as dilatory students away from the Bible by any subterfuge it can.  All Christian Scientists should be alert to the wiles of the carnal mind when it comes time for daily study of both these essential books.

        Can we afford not to use this priceless key daily to open the door to the treasures our heavenly Father has for us all this coming year, and ever thereafter?