"'I bring you good news of great joy that will be for all the people.  Today in the town of David a Savior has been born to you; he is Christ the Lord.  This will be a sign to you:  You will find a baby wrapped in cloths and lying in a manger.'" Luke 2:10-12

Contact: White House, Office of the Press Secretary, 202-456-2580

WASHINGTON, Dec. 23 /Standard Newswire/ -- The following text is a message from President Bush -- Christmas 2008: 

Each year, Christmas brings together families, friends, and communities to rejoice in the birth of Jesus Christ and celebrate the wonderful gifts God has bestowed upon us.  During this season, we remember Jesus' birth from the Virgin Mary, His justice and mercy that changed the world, and His ultimate sacrifice for all people.  Though Jesus was born humbly in a manger, He was destined to be the Savior of the world.  The light He brought into the world continues to break through darkness and change people's lives two thousand years later.

This holiday season, as you rejoice in the good news of Jesus' love, forgiveness, acceptance, and peace, I encourage you to show grace to those less fortunate, just as God showed it to us.  By serving those in need and through other acts of love and compassion, we can honor God's goodness and affirm the immeasurable value God places on the sanctity of life.  We remember the members of our Armed Forces serving to protect our country and secure God's gift of freedom for others around the globe.  All Americans are indebted to these men and women and their families for their sacrifice, devotion to duty, and patriotism.

Laura and I send our best wishes for a very Merry Christmas.  May you be surrounded by loved ones and blessed by the Author of Life during this joyous holiday and throughout the New Year.

GEORGE W. BUSH