The world is filled with the sounds of Christmas. If you listen with your outer ears, you will hear carols, bells, and laughter, and now and then a sob of loneliness. If you listen with the inner ear, you will hear the sound of angels’ wings, the hush of inner expectation, and the sacred sound of the deepest silence, the vibrant whisper of the eternal Word.

The world is filled with the sights of Christmas. If you look with your outer eyes, you will see brightly decorated trees, tinseled stars, flaming candles, and a crèche. If you look with the inner eye, you will see the star of Bethlehem in your own heart.

—Adapted from Anna May Nielson

What is Christmas? It is tenderness for the past, courage for the present, hope for the future. It is a fervent wish that every cup may overflow with blessings rich and eternal, and that every path may lead to peace.

—Agnes M. Pahro

Mankind is a great, an immense family. This is proved by what we feel in our hearts at Christmas.

—Pope John XXIII

It is Christmas in the heart that puts Christmas in the air.

—W. T. Ellis

May you have the gladness of Christmas, which is hope; the spirit of Christmas, which is peace; the heart of Christmas, which is love.

—Ada V. Hendricks

When was Jesus born?

Some theologians argue about the actual date of Jesus’ birth, but what difference does it make? All that matters is that He was born, He lived, He died for you and me, and He rose again so we could do the same. Someone centuries ago picked December 25th to celebrate His birthday, and that’s fine with me. I don’t care when we celebrate it, as long as we do.

—David Brandt Berg