Universal Solvent

There is a passage in Science and Health by Mary Baker Eddy that explains that Love – God – is a universal solvent.  (see page 242)  Solvent has several definitions that are useful here (see Ask.com).  The first, from chemistry is, a substance which dissolves, forming a solution.  The second is, something that solves or explains.  Both are helpful in learning to know God better.

The first definition is particularly interesting because it fits right in with the Christian Science view of Spirit as substance.  Building on that theme, you could say that Spirit, God dissolves whatever is unlike Him, that is, whatever is unlike good.  Out of that dissolution then comes a solution, an answer, even a cure.  For example, by dissolving sickness, health is revealed.  By removing sin, purity is made plain.  By overcoming fear, peace is at hand.  Reasoning further, we can see that true substance is always the solution.  That fact simply dissolves any other conclusion.

The second definition also squares with Christian Science which defines God in part as All-knowing and All-acting (ibid pg. 587).  That means that any true solution or explanation is divine, coming straight from Principle, another name for God.  Love’s solution is intelligent and sufficient.  And it is not unknowable, but fully explained and fully understood through the same divine Mind that enacted it.

You may have noticed that I’ve introduced a number of names for God: Love, Spirit, Principle, Mind.  Add to that Life, Soul, and Truth and you have a complete picture of God as defined in the Bible and explained in Science and Health.  Knowing the fullness and allness of God brings to light more clearly how the universal solvent operates.  This broad and complete characterization of Deity leaves no gaps in His creation where a solution could go missing.  Every need is met by trusting this divine fact.

Melissa Hayden is a Christian Science practitioner in Salem, OR. You can find more information and additional articles at this link.  If you like what you’re reading, click the “add me” button.