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The Substance of Faith Allied with Science (6th Ed.) / A Catechism for Parents and Teachers cover

The Substance of Faith Allied with Science (6th Ed.) / A Catechism for Parents and Teachers

Chapter 40: CLAUSE XVIII
By Sir Oliver Lodge
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About This Book

Aimed at parents and teachers, the work presents a concise catechism that seeks to reconcile Christian belief with modern scientific knowledge by framing core doctrines in terms of divine immanence and moral development. It surveys human ascent, conscience, character, duty, and the nature of evil and sin, then addresses biological and cosmic perspectives, the idea of spirit or higher faculties, grace and incarnation, and the reality of inspiration. Practical sections consider prayer, the Lord's Prayer, communal life, and an outline creed, offering accessible guidance for religious instruction in an intellectually informed age.

CLAUSE XVIII

In prayer we come into close communion with a Higher than we know, and seek to contemplate Divine perfection. Its climax and consummation is attained when we realise the universal Permeance, the entire Goodness, and the Fatherly Love, of the Divine Being. Through prayer we admit our dependence on a Higher Power, for existence and health and everything we possess; we are encouraged to ask for whatever we need, as children ask parents; and we inevitably cry for mercy and comfort in times of tribulation and anguish.

The spirit of simple supplication may desire chiefly—

1. Insight and receptiveness to truth and knowledge.
2. Help and guidance in the practical management of life.
3. Ability and willingness to follow the light whithersoever it leads.

But provided we ask in a right spirit, it is not necessary to be specially careful concerning the kind of things asked for; nor need we in all cases attempt to decide how far their attainment is possible or not. In such matters we may admit our ignorance. What is important is that we should apply our own efforts towards the fulfilment of our petition, and not be satisfied with wishes alone. Everything accomplished has to be done by actual work and activity of some kind, and it is unreasonable to expect the rest of the universe to take trouble on our behalf while we ourselves are supine. Certain material means are within our control: these should be fully employed, in the light of the best knowledge of the time.

The highest type of prayer has for its object not any material benefit, beyond those necessary for our activity and usefulness, but the enlightenment and amendment of our wills, the elevation of all humanity, and the coming of the Kingdom.