December 15, 1985
Nancy and I are delighted that so many have lent their talents tonight to help benefit the Children's
Hospital National Medical Center here in Washington. On occasions like this, our thoughts reach
back to that day 1,985 years ago in Bethlehem. Tom, I hope you won't feel like I'm horning in on
your profession, but I'd like to read a contemporary news account of that event 2,000 years ago:
``And there were in the same country shepherds abiding in the field keeping watch over their flock
by night. And, lo, the angel of the Lord came upon them and the glory of the Lord showed 'round
them, and they were sore afraid. And the angel said unto them, `Fear not, for behold, I bring you
good tidings of great joy, which shall be to all people. For unto you is born this day in the City of
David a Savior, which is Christ the Lord.'''
So, it's appropriate that in the Christmas season we honor the little children. Like the Savior who
first appeared in this world a helpless infant, our children, in their vulnerability, innocence, and
trust, carry the light of the world in their hearts. With our children, we literally hold the future in
our arms. Let us follow the better angels of our nature and come to see this thing which the Lord
has made known to us in the spirit of every little child.
Let me read a little more of that news account: ```And this shall be a sign unto you,' the angel said
to the shepherds. `Ye shall find the babe wrapped in swaddling clothes, lying in a manger.' And
suddenly there was with the angel, a multitude of the heavenly hosts, praising God and saying,
`Glory to God in the highest, and on earth, peace, good will toward men.'''
Thank you again for all that you've done for the Children's Hospital. Let us find comfort and joy
in our children and with them pray for peace on Earth and good will toward men.
Thank you, and God bless you all.
Note: The President spoke at 5:55 p.m. at the National Building Museum. Tom Brokaw, NBC
News correspondent, hosted the concert and introduced the President.