Every December, there are always more than a few media stories floating around about local governments deciding to replace Christmas displays with holiday displays or removing Christmas displays entirely.
Every December, there are always more than a few media stories floating around about local governments deciding to replace Christmas displays with holiday displays or removing Christmas displays entirely. These reports have always rubbed me the wrong way for many reasons, one of which is the belief that government shouldn’t be policing Christmas. In my short time in Washington, I have seen government become increasingly intrusive in our lives and many of you have told me that enough is enough. I have fought vigorously against such government interference, from what we eat to where we bank to how we farm our land.
Yet it still came as a shock to me when on the same day folks in D.C. were touting the lighting of the Capitol Christmas Tree I learned that some members of Congress were being discouraged from issuing Christmas newspaper columns and statements. It has always been my firm belief that the First Amendment to our Constitution guarantees freedom of religion, not freedom from religion. Also, keep in mind that the government recognizes Christmas as a federal holiday. After I got over my initial shock that some would view Christmas as a subject that should not be written about, I was suddenly struck by the following passage:
“For to us a child is born, to us a son is given; and the government will be on his shoulders. And he will be called Wonderful Counselor, Mighty God, Everlasting Father, Prince of Peace. Of the greatness of his government and peace there will be no end. He will reign on David’s throne and over his kingdom, establishing and upholding it with justice and righteousness from that time on and forever. The zeal of the LORD Almighty will accomplish this." -Isaiah 9:6-7
There is so much good that comes at Christmas time. It’s a time of year when people reach out in the hope of bringing joy to those in need. I am always amazed at the generosity of Missourians to help those who need a little help, particularly all the support charitable organizations receive during the holiday season. The season is also a time when the gift of friendship and the spirit of forgiveness offer special bonds that help strengthen our families and solidify our friendships.
There also is a unique ability of Christmas to bring people together. Unity is important and we should embrace and celebrate our differences. I believe that we must have faith in God and each other in order for us to make the world a better place. Christmas is also a time of peace, when we hope individuals and nations will set aside their differences in the spirit of the season.
As we celebrate with family and friends, I ask that you take a moment to say a special prayer for the thousands of men and women in uniform who are far from home this holiday season. I also ask that you keep the families of those brave folks in your hearts as they deal with the absence of a loved one. On behalf of myself, my family and my staff, I want to wish you a joyous and peaceful Christmas season. Merry Christmas and Happy New Year!
