President Obama explained the message of Jesus in his annual Christmas Day address with first lady Michelle Obama.
“Today, like millions of Americans and Christians around the world, our family celebrates the birth of Jesus and the values he lived in his own life,” Obama said in a video message posted on Friday. “Treating one another with love and compassion. Caring for those on society’s margins: the sick and the hungry, the poor and the persecuted, the stranger in need of shelter — or simply an act of kindness.”
He said, “That’s the spirit that binds us together — not just as Christians, but as Americans of all faiths. It’s what the holidays are about: coming together as one American family to celebrate our blessings and the values we hold dear.”
He continued, “During this season, we also honor all who defend those values in our country’s uniform. Every day, the brave men and women of our military serve to keep us safe — and so do their families.”
Michelle Obama urged Americans to join her in supporting military families.
“Let’s also take time to pay tribute to those who have given our country so much,” she said. “Go to JoiningForces.gov to see how you can serve the troops, veterans and military families in your community. And together, we can show them just how grateful we are for their sacrifice. That’s a tradition we all can embrace — today and every day.”
