FROM THE EDITORS December 25, 2006 Issue

CHERISH THE CHILD

Editor

AT CHRISTMAS, thoughts turn toward the well-loved story of the Nativity, which holds a promise of healing and safety for the world and all its children. Sadly, the yearning to truly cherish the birth of Jesus and its message may not reach beyond one's own doorstep, or continue after the holiday season.

Men and women, nations and cultures, seek to love and protect children. For many, however, the stark realities of life and its frightening prospects can make protecting all children, all the time, seem out of reach or impossible. Yet Jesus' healing works illustrate that God, the Parent of all, is never out of reach of His creation. God guards the identity of every individual, without exception.

Children are society's precious responsibility; they carry the joy and hope for humanity's future. Along these lines, it's telling that Mary Baker Eddy, writing of this responsibility, did not mention it as exclusive to parents: "Is not the propagation of the human species a greater responsibility, a more solemn charge, than the culture of your garden or the raising of stock to increase your flocks and herds? Nothing unworthy of perpetuity should be transmitted to children" (Science and Health with Key to the Scriptures, p. 61). Here's an inspiring guideline for every citizen. And the possibilities for fulfilling it are endless, when sought with soul-searching willingness to hear divine direction. This willingness goes the extra mile to establish communities rooted in the unconditional love of God.

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