For Christian Scientists the coming of Christmas always presents an opportunity for a reappraisal and increased appreciation of its meaning. As we lift thought above the merely material sense of a human celebration we bow, figuratively, in deep gratitude and reverence, realizing its all-important spiritual significance in our own lives.
Through what spiritual perception indeed of a divine event did the Wisemen bring their gifts to the manger! The birth of the infant Jesus heralded the appearing of the great Way-shower, the prophesied Messiah, who from then even until now remains the true Exemplar, the practical exemplification of man's spiritual sonship with God.
In the light of Christian Science, the life, the works, and the words of Christ Jesus receive their full recognition and appreciation. His life represents a blessing bestowed on mankind far transcending any gift material. Speaking of this, Mary Baker Eddy, the Discoverer and revelator of Christian Science, writes in her book "The First Church of Christ, Scientist, and Miscellany" (p. 258): "The memory of the Bethlehem babe bears to mortals gifts greater than those of Magian kings,—hopes that cannot deceive, that waken prophecy, gleams of glory, coronals of meekness, diadems of love. Nor should they who drink their Master's cup repine over blossoms that mock their hope and friends that forsake. Divinely beautiful are the Christmas memories of him who sounded all depths of love, grief, death, and humanity."
