President
Obama and his first lady Michelle Obama urged Americans to follow Jesus
Christ's example of charity and compassion in his annual Christmas greeting.
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. “Treating
one another with love, compassion and care for those in need or simply an act
of kindness.
Obama's
holiday message appeared to be aimed at a public on edge after terrorist
attacks in Paris and San Bernardino, Calif.
The
president has tried to counter inflammatory rhetoric from Republican
presidential front-runner Donald Trump, pleading with Americans not to give
into Islamophobia and remain open to welcoming refugees fleeing the Islamic
State in Iraq and Syria.
"That’s
the spirit that binds us together — not just as Christians, but as Americans of
all faiths," the president said. "It’s what the holidays are about:
coming together as one American family to celebrate our blessings and the
values we hold dear."
In the
spirit of Christmas, the president and first lady Michelle Obama called on
Americans to honor the sacrifice of military service members by giving back to
them and their communities.
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," the president said.
"Let’s
also take time to pay tribute to those who have given our country so
much," added the first lady.
The Obamas
are spending their annual Christmas vacation in the president's home state of
Hawaii.
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