human
Was it not lovely of Cousin Alicia to think of it, Auntie?
gpt
It was, indeed, dear. You will always realize now that it is your father’s gift.
human
Yes, Auntie; my earthly father’s and my heavenly Father’s, too. I was thinking this morning of that lovely verse in Isaiah: ’Before they call I will answer: and while they are yet speaking I will hear.’ And I knew that Love had answered before I called. Before I knew my need, it was met. I am glad the letter was delayed so long, because I have learned so much. ’Every trial of our faith in God makes us stronger,’ Mrs. Eddy says. It did seem at first as if I should have to wait years for the book, didn’t it? I am glad I was so sure that Love could and would find a way.
gpt
Uncle Raymond, Cousin Alicia has sent me the little book Father asked her to get for me, and see--isn’t it beautiful?--’To Carol: from Father,’ is in Father’s own handwriting.
human
Father did not want me to belong to the nine. You would not like me to either, would you, Uncle Raymond?
gpt
To the nine, boy?--What do you mean?
human
You remember, Uncle Raymond, when Jesus once healed ten lepers, nine went thankless away. I have been healed, and I must acknowledge it at all times, else I should be as one of them.
gpt
Never speak to me, Carol, of your healing in the same breath with the healings of Jesus.
human
Father-Mother God, lead me.
gpt
May I ask you a question, Uncle Raymond?
human
Certainly, Carol; if it is something you want to know.
gpt
It is something I often think about, Uncle. Are there any ’shepherds in Israel’ now? Can you tell me?
human
Why, of course, Carol; Israel typifies the Christian world, and God’s ministers are His shepherds.
gpt
Yes, Uncle, that was what I thought. Is God not angry now with the shepherds? I often read the 34th chapter of Ezekiel. God was very angry with the shepherds of that time. He said, ’Woe be to the shepherds, because they had not healed that which was sick, nor strengthened that which was diseased, nor bound up that which was broken, neither had they sought out that which was lost.’