Now when Jesus was born in Bethlehem of Judea in the days of Herod the king, behold, there came wise men from the east to Jerusalem. Saying, Where is he that is born King of the Jews? for we have seen his star in the east, and are come to worship him.... When they had heard the King, they departed; and, lo, the star, which they saw in the east, went before them, till it came and stood over where the young child was. When they saw the star, they rejoiced with exceeding great joy Matt ii:1, 2; 9, 10.
Discourse given by the Pastor of the Church of Christ (Scientist), Boston, Mass., Dec. 28, 1890.
Over the rocky road which separates Persia from Judea, a caravan winds its solitary way. Its camels are laden with spices, and perfumes, gems and precious stones; yet their owners are not merchants. There is neither the shrewd air of traffic in demeanor, nor gleam of barter in their faces. Those thoughtful brows belong to men accustomed to deep and earnest study upon profoundly lofty subjects. Why are they making a journey involving such expenditure of time as well as hazard to life? Is it to mingle with some Congress of sages—some convention of the learned and wise? Not so. This toilsome journey, has a widely different object. It is to lay these offerings of their choicest at the feet of a little child: a child born—not in princely halls midst pomp and pageantry—but in the manger of a stall, amongst the lowly and poor, with horned oxen to witness his advent.
