THE New Zealand Times. (PUBLISHED DAILY.) THURSDAY, DECEMBER 31, 1896. CHRISTMAS—1896.

New Zealand Times, Volume LVIX, Issue 3011, 24 December 1896, Page 2

THE New Zealand Times. (PUBLISHED DAILY.)

THURSDAY, DECEMBER 31, 1896. CHRISTMAS— IB96.

With which are incorporated the Wellington Indevendont , established 1845, and the New Zealander.

‘‘Peace on Earth, goodwill toward men.” We are afraid that it is like crying “ Peace, when there is no peace.” However, if Christmas does nothing else, it reminds men that there are other things to live for than mere money-grubbing. If only one could see tho faces of those who will join the family gatherings to-morrow in onr own New Zealand, the sight would do him good. Bat in the midst of our rejoicings there comes to us a knowledge of the fact that many of the failures of our race and blood are as Lazarus at the gate. Christian men and women have been moved at this season to help the one who lies there suffering, and wemust humbly thank God that it is so. Even in a secular paper it may not be altogether inexcusable to say that it would be better for us all if the Christ-life could enter more fully into the people of this young nation. Then, perhaps, we should the better understand the Divine injunction, “Bear ye one another's burdens.” Long may the old associations of this season—which celebrates the birth of the greatest of all Reformers —cling to us as a people. Should they ever lose their hold upon us we shall be Indeed the poorer. In the truest spirit, therefore, we say to all who read these lines—not in hackneyed phraseology, but with every desire for a fulfilment of the wish —May this Christmastido be to each and all of us, not that which we have deserved, but that which those who love us would fain see us enjoy.