I drove my mom crazy.
She was a bubbly extrovert, and I was a cynical introvert. So getting a picture of me on Santa’s lap was definitely a no-go. To me, it was beyond creepy to sit on the lap of a strange man wearing a fake beard. My spidey sense was screaming stranger danger! Coincidentally, I still avoid anyone wearing a Santa suit to this day.
Imagine my surprise, at the age of (mumbled number), to discover that the man behind this whole Santa thing was actually a real person—one who was generous and deeply devoted to the Lord. Saint Nicholas wasn’t just folklore. He was a faithful Christian who likely faced persecution for his beliefs.
One thing we do know about him is that he participated with the group of church leaders who affirmed what became the Nicene Creed. This creed clearly expresses how we, as Christian believers, worship one true God who exists as three persons—Father, Son, and Holy Spirit.
But unlike many other saints, Saint Nicholas wasn’t primarily known for his theological writings or scholarly achievements. In an article for Campbell University, religion professor Adam English writes:
“There are many saints who were intellectuals and scholars who influenced Christian thought, but here is a saint who influenced faith by his actions, by his life. His influence is his testimony of charity.”
According to the article, after researching Saint Nicholas, English began to see Christmas differently. He no longer viewed it mainly as a family-centered holiday, but as a time when a community comes together to practice charity, justice, and hospitality.
So will I ever learn to like strange men in fake beards and red velvet suits? Highly unlikely.
But I can remember the very real Saint Nicholas—and his message to live out our faith through generosity, kindness, and hospitality. And that’s a Christmas tradition worth keeping.
* Source: “Who Was St. Nicholas?” Campbell University
https://news.campbell.edu/articles/who-was-st-nicholas/
