Editorial December 21, 1963 Issue

"The babe we are to cherish"

Ralph E. Wagers

Much that occupies thought during the Christmas season does not even touch the true significance of the occasion. The devotional festivities through which the birth of the Saviour is commemorated tend to keep alive the remembrance of a highly important historical event. But after the ornaments have been put away and the gifts have been evaluated and acknowledged, there is a tendency for one to assume that Christ has been glorified, and now men can get back into the routine of daily living.

But is Christ glorified in such observances? True, the Bethlehem babe has been honored. However, until human thought reaches beyond the manger to the period in which Christ Jesus took his Christly message of salvation and healing to the people, the true significance of the Christmas season remains unsought and so unrecognized. In fact, what is truly involved in the Saviour's appearing will remain a matter of conjecture until the spiritual meaning of what the Master said and what he did is understood, particularly his healing works.

In a short article entitled "The Cry of Christmas-tide," Mrs. Eddy states (Miscellaneous Writings, p. 370): "In different ages the divine idea assumes different forms, according to humanity's needs. In this age it assumes, more intelligently than ever before, the form of Christian healing. This is the babe we are to cherish."

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