Article December 24, 2007 Issue

The wonder of God's gifts JOY

BY ELAINE LANG

Wonder A word that describes a response to whatever is exceptionally fine, beautiful, or dear to our hearts. In my experiences as a mother, and through jobs that enabled me to interact with children, I've seen many proofs of the power of innocence and childlike joy. To me, this quality, whether expressed by a child or an adult, indicates a thought filled with appreciation. It effectively destroys cynicism and apathy. And the Christmas season, in particular, offers a special opportunity to experience this liberating power.

Many elements of the Christmas tradition inspire wonder. Families gather to embrace, reunite, and forgive. Charitable organizations feed and clothe the needy. Christmas music soars with joy and tenderness. Countless individuals prove that it truly is better to give than receive. And fragrant evergreen trees become emblems of renewal, gracing homes and businesses. To me, these are all outward symbols of the Christly idea of God's loving care.

The Christmas story, most of all, fills my heart with awe. It illustrates God's perfect care for His children—seen throughout history but brought forward for the world to see through Christ Jesus. Mary Baker Eddy spoke in Science and Health of this appearing of the Christ: "The incarnation of Truth, that amplification of wonder and glory which angels could only whisper and which God illustrated by light and harmony, is consonant with ever-present Love" (p. 501).