    [Public Papers of the Presidents of the United States: William J. Clinton (1994, Book II)]
    [December 15, 1994]
    [Pages 2181-2182]
    [From the U.S. Government Publishing Office www.gpo.gov]

    Message on the Observance of Christmas
    December 15, 1994

        Warm greetings to Americans everywhere during this joyous Christmas
    season.
        The timeless story of a baby born in a manger amid humble
    surroundings is the fulfillment of a promise, an affirmation of faith.
    Jesus' birth demonstrates the infinite love of God. We celebrate the
    gift of His life, and Christmas softens our hearts and rekindles in us a
    sincere desire to reach out to others in peace and friendship.
        As we rejoice in the miracle of Christmas, we reflect on the Holy
    Family and draw strength from their example of faith. We are reminded
    that the bonds between parent and child, between husband and wife, and
    between neighbor and stranger are opportunities to answer Jesus' call to
    love one another, and we are reminded that one day we will be asked
    whether we lived out His love in ways that treated all of our brothers
    and sisters--even the least of them--as we would have treated Him.
        In holy Bethlehem and throughout the Middle East, ancient enemies
    are putting aside their

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    differences and coming together in goodwill. Recognizing that there is
    still much work to be done, let us build on this success and nurture
    love and caring in our world, in our neighborhoods, and in our homes.
    With this commitment, we can all share in the fulfillment of the
    Christmas promise.
        Hillary joins me in wishing you joy and peace this Christmas.

                                                                Bill Clinton