“We should examine ourselves and learn what is the affection and purpose of the heart, for in this way only can we learn what we honestly are.” (Science and Health, page 8)

We may be used to examining our physical state of being, checking for or being aware of signs of sickness or of health; of weakness or of strength. We may put a lot of effort into this type of exam, or let others do it for us.

But a true examination of ourselves and what really makes us tick and keep on ticking, is one which seeks out the Truth. Who we really are and how well we are expressing this real you and me, is found by looking to our hearts, to our affections, to the place where Love naturally and  necessarily dwells.

Take a moment, or many moments, to pause for reflection. Are my motives at their best? Do I really love others and myself? Am I grateful, appreciating good, yearning to know God’s Love better and to express it more completely? Or am I taking an opposite view—agreeing to a limited view of myself or a self-centered approach to others?

This type of examination isn’t meant to lead us to guilt, nor should we go in to this activity looking for trouble, expecting to find something bad and then justifying its presence. We must embark on this exploration as a prayer. It is communing with God and letting Him, divine Love, reveal what makes sense in His beautiful creation and what really does not belong there, and hence has no real power to remain or to harm us.

Take a good look at yourself. I think you will find that your purpose and affection is better than you think—full of light and love. Don’t fight that intention or limit it with material reasons why you can’t be what God caused you to be. God made you good, pure, loving, and expressing the health and happiness that is the natural result of His purpose. This is who you are honestly are. Relish the occasion to discover this anew and to live it fully and freely!

These messages are based on passages from the Bible and Science and Health with Key to the Scriptures, by Mary Baker Eddy. These books are our “pastor” in Christian Science. Come back every Tuesday and Thursday for fresh inspiration. Or get a free subscription to receive an inspirational message like this one every morning directly to your inbox by contacting me at lamolitercs@aol.com. Put “subscribe” in the subject line. A downloadable compilation of categorized messages is also available by request.