Merry Christmas from the Obamas: President and First Lady Encourage Love, Compassion and Hope

With less than a month left in the presidency, President Obama and first lady Michelle Obama delivered their final Christmas address to the nation, talking about the progress the country has made while encouraging the eternal message of love, compassion and hope. The president was even able to sneak in a dad joke.

"Celebrating the holidays in the White House over these past eight years has been a true privilege. We’ve been able to welcome over half a million guests, our outstanding pastry chefs have baked 200,000 holiday cookies and Barack has treated the American people to countless dad jokes," the first lady said.

"Although a few got a Frosty reception," the president responded.

He went on to say that the honor of serving as president and first lady was the greatest gift they had received over the past eight years. Speaking about the progress the country has made, Obama highlighted health care, the unemployment rate being at a nine year low and the fight back from the worst recession in 80 years.

"By so many measures, our country is stronger and more prosperous than it was when we first got here. And I’m hopeful we’ll build on the progress we’ve made in the years to come," he said. "Tomorrow, for the final time as the First Family, we will join our fellow Christians around the world to rejoice in the birth of our Savior. And as we retell His story from that Holy Night, we’ll also remember His eternal message, one of boundless love, compassion and hope."

He said those were not just values that guide his family's Christian faith but that of Jewish Americans, Muslim Americans, non-believers and Americans of all backgrounds.

Finally, the first lady reminded Americans of the troops, many of whom are away from their families this holiday season and whose courage and dedication allows the rest of the country to enjoy this season.

"So as we look forward to the New Year, let’s resolve to recommit ourselves to the values we share," the president said. "And on behalf of the all the Obamas – Michelle, Malia, Sasha, Bo, and that troublemaker Sunny – Merry Christmas, everybody."

"And we wish you and your family a happy and healthy 2017. Thanks and God bless," the First Lady said in closing.

Watch the full address below:

Image Credit: YouTube Screenshot