My hero - the poor wise man

This week's Bible Lesson on Mind includes a short but powerful story that deserves deep consideration.

There was a little city, and few men within it; and there came a great king against it, and besieged it, and built great bulwarks against it: Now there was found in it a poor wise man, and he by his wisdom delivered the city; wisdom is better than weapons of war.  (Ecclesiastes 9: 15, 18)

This Bible story is paired with words of wisdom from Science and Health:

     Rise in the strength of Spirit to resist all that is unlike good. God has man capable of this, and nothing can vitiate the ability and power divinely bestowed on man.
     Be firm in your understanding that the divine Mind governs, and that in Science man reflects God's government. (Science and Health 393: 12 - 18)

     There have been times when I have felt a bit like that poor wise man, just one person against what seemed to be overwhelming odds. I see in this story a wonderful and inspiring deeper meaning. When one feels relentlessly besieged by the claims of evil, disease, or lack, one can face it with calm and poise.

...Mary Baker Eddy faced many such threats as she discovered and founded Christian Science. In her time, the mid-1800's, it was unheard of and frowned upon for a woman to be an author, lecture publicly, and manage her own affairs. By her reliance on God, she expressed the wisdom to establish a church, write its bylaws, and heal all manner of sickness.

     She wrote: 'Divine Love always has met and always will meet every human need".

     An article was published in the Christian Science Journal about the poor wise man. I loved these ideas:

     Many Christian Scientist the world over that taken the role of the "poor wise man" and known the truth in the face of aggressive phases of error. On many occasions the thoroughness and devotedness of this prayerful work have resulted in a positive healing to others.

     The study and practice of Christian Science bestow the priceless blessing of spiritual understanding. This understanding enables one to go on his daily round with peace, joy, and clarity of thought, bringing healing to confusion and discord.

     ...that which saved the little city was not the person, but the wisdom of the Christ, bestowed by divine Love.
(The poor wise man who saved a city by Harry E. De Lasaux, Journal, April 1947)

     I'll be thinking about and appreciating that poor wise man today and giving thanks for the many times the Christ has been there to 'save the city' for me.