Today was Saint Nicholas Day so it makes sense to discuss the tradition of Santa Claus.

Let’s think about the Santa we know.  A jolly fella who sits in the mall, makes appearances in the parades and tells all the good little kids that of course they will receive all the toys they desire.  Then on Christmas eve he travels the world in a sleigh with rain deer sliding down chimneys depositing lots of toys.

The real Saint Nicholas lived from 273 to 343 and died on December 6.  Born to wealthy parents who died when he was young, Nicholas moved to live with his uncle.  Early in his life, Nicholas learned to love Christ.  He became a monk and then the Bishop of Myra.

Nicholas determined to use his inheritance to help others.  He is known for being a giver to those in need.  He spent part of his life in prison for his faith, but was released when Constantine released the Christians.

Saint Nicholas became a popular saint in many countries across Europe.  Different traditions grew around gift giving on his Saint day.

These traditions morphed into the crazy materialistic Santa gift giving we know today.

Journalling questions.

1)  Do you think of Christmas as a time to give to others in need?  Is this season more about what is in it for you or what you can do for others?

Acts 20

³⁵ I have shewed you all things, how that so labouring ye ought to support the weak, and to remember the words of the Lord Jesus, how he said, It is more blessed to give than to receive.

2)  You possess many resources that include money, time, talents, love.  Are you willing to give all you have if God asks it of you.  When people in real need appear in your life, do you find reasons to not help them or do you give what you have to help them.  Saint Nicholas gave all he had both financially and of his time.

The following was what Jesus said to the Rich Young Ruler.  The young ruler walked away because he loved his money more than he loved Jesus.  Saint Nicholas chose to give all to help the poor and to spend his life following Jesus.  What is your answer to Jesus?  Think through all the areas: money, time, talents, love.

Mark 10

²¹ Then Jesus beholding him loved him, and said unto him, One thing thou lackest: go thy way, sell whatsoever thou hast, and give to the poor, and thou shalt have treasure in heaven: and come, take up the cross, and follow me.