Secret Santa

It has become common knowledge that the person we call Santa evolved from a Bishop named Nicholas who lived in Myra during the forth century. Nicholas is one of the most revered Christian leaders from the early church. I think because he sought to live a life based on the teachings of Christ and on the scriptures.

Nicholas orphaned while very young inherited a great deal of wealth. Rather than following a life of business, he chose to serve Christ.  The lad learned to love Jesus at an early age and eventually was named Bishop of Myra.  Three traits, in my opinion, made Nicholas someone who lived out the Christian faith.

1  Gave what he had to help others and did it in secret.

Three young girls lived in the village where he was Bishop.  Their father did not have the money to provide their dowry.  Young girls in this era who had no dowry could not expect marriage. There prospects appeared dim.

The legend varies, but it seems Nicholas decided to sneak into their home at night. He found their stockings hung up to dry.  He dropped enough gold coins into each girls stockings to assure they had a dowry.  He met their need and shared what he had.

2.  He fought for those who could not fight for themselves.

Three men, accused of a crime, were sentenced to death.  Nicholas stood up for them and fought to get them free.  He won their release.

3.  He stood strong in his faith never wavering.

Nicholas during a time of persecution of Christians refused to deny Christ and was imprisoned.

 

Prayer:   Ask God to show me people who I can help.  Help me to see the need and to have the strength to do what is needed.

I also pray for strength to never deny my faith, to be willing to tell others who my Lord is.

Mediation:   Who could I be a secret Nicholas for?  Are their people who need my help?  What could I do and how could I do it without anyone knowing?

Also think about when do I stand for Christ?  Do I deny Christ with my silence?  If my admission of being a Christian came with a cost, would I stand.

Action:  Make a plan and act on it based on the results of my meditation.  Look for people who I can make their lives better.