[Weekly Compilation of Presidential Documents Volume 30, Number 50 (Monday, December 19, 1994)]
[Page 2504]
[Online from the Government Publishing Office, www.gpo.gov]

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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 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