God and Country will return on 28 December.  In the meantime, we leave you with the words of President Barack Obama, chatting with children during a visit to a Boys and Girls Club in Washington, DC.  Amazingly, at least one person has implied Obama violated the Constitution in making these comments.  The relationship between those in government service, the Constitution, and religion is certainly controversial–and misunderstood–in America today.  Kudos to the President for not shying away from the legitimate discussion of religious beliefs, as well as respecting those of the children.

Have a wonderful celebration of the birth of our Savior.  Merry Christmas.

THE PRESIDENT:  You know, I think that the most important thing is just to remember why we celebrate Christmas.

CHILD:  I know!

THE PRESIDENT:  Do you know?

CHILD:  The birth of baby Jesus.

THE PRESIDENT:  The birth of baby Jesus, and what he symbolizes for people all around the world is the possibility of peace and people treating each other with respect…You know, it’s not just about getting gifts but it’s also doing something for other people.  So being nice to your mom and dad and grandma and aunties and showing respect to people — that’s really important too, that’s part of the Christmas spirit…

THE PRESIDENT:  Do you have an interesting observation?

CHILD:  I know why we give gifts to other people.

THE PRESIDENT:  Why is that?

CHILD:  Because the three wise men gave gifts to baby Jesus.

THE PRESIDENT:  That’s exactly right…The three wise men…have all this money, they’ve got all this wealth and power, and yet they took a long trip to a manger just to see a little baby.  And it just shows you that just because you’re powerful or you’re wealthy, that’s not what’s important.  What’s important is what’s — the kind of spirit you have.

So I hope everybody has a spirit of kindness and thoughtfulness, and everybody is really thinking about how can they do for other people — treating them well, because that’s really the spirit of Christmas.

First reported at the Religion Clause.