In her "Miscellaneous Writings" (p. 320) our beloved Leader, Mary Baker Eddy, in an illuminating article on Christmas says, "This interesting day, crowned with the history of Truth's idea,—its earthly advent and nativity,—is especially dear to the heart of Christian Scientists; to whom Christ's appearing in a fuller sense is so precious, and fraught with divine benedictions for mankind."
Christmas does take on a new meaning for the student of this Science. Whereas many who now call themselves Christian Scientists have always revered the natal day of the great Nazarene as celebrated by all Christendom, yet today, in the light of the appearing of the Christ in a fuller sense, they find this sacred anniversary indeed "fraught with divine benedictions for mankind." As a child, I was taught to believe that the Christmastide commemorated the birth of the King of kings; in fact, God and Christ seemed synonymous terms. The first prayer formed by my infant lips was addressed to Jesus rather than to God. But did this concept of the Master prove to be a savior from sickness and discord to our supposedly Christian family? It did not. While our hearts were ever stirred by the wondrous story of the nativity, and we brought to the Christ-child as our offerings the gold, frankincense, and myrrh of deep religious emotion, it is not my recollection that sickness was ever healed thereby, nor was pain stilled, sin stifled, or peace of mind enthroned.
How changed has been the picture for us in Christian Science! Our understanding now that Christ Jesus is our forever Way-shower, the great demonstrator of God's law of harmonious, spiritual being, the Son of God, whose mission was to show all mankind how to claim this sonship also —this concept of the Nazarene has not lessened our love for and devotion to him. Rather do we love him more and strive for a greater understanding of his words and works and a closer walk with him.
