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from the December 1997 edition of Shine
The man known today as Santa Claus was born in what is now the country of Turkey (Myra) in about 270 A.D.
While still a teenager, his wealthy parents died, leaving him their fortune. Yet even at this early age, Nicholas' generosity was evident. Hearing of a destitute family who lacked money for food and even was prepared to prostitute their daughter, Nicholas knew he could help.
Under cover of darkness he threw a bag of gold coins through the window of their modest home. When the father awoke in the morning he was filled with joy. His family and his daughter's honor had been saved. Eventually, Nicholas provided anonymous dowry's for each of the three daughters, enabling them to marry. It is rumored that his generosity was duplicated in numerous instances. Legend even recounts that at times he would drop the gifts down the fireplace, when open windows could not be found. Sometimes the coins thrown through the window or dropped down the chimney would even land in stockings hung by the fire to dry.
Years later, Nicholas abandoned his wealth and heeded a call to the ministry. Early one morning, as he knelt to pray in the church, an aged minister approached him and inquired who he was.
"Nicholas the sinner," the young man answered. "And I am your servant."
Soon, Nicholas was made the bishop of Myra.
During his time as bishop, the Roman emperor Diocletian ordered merciless persecution of all Christians. Suspected Christians were ordered to make sacrifices to the Roman gods. Nicholas was a leader in the refusal of believers to capitulate. Many of those who resisted were tortured and brutally killed. Some were fed to wild animals, some forced to fight for their lives against skilled gladiators, and some were burned alive. Almost all were jailed. As a result of their suffering, those who survived were hailed by the people as "saints." Among the survivors was Nicholas of Myra.
Several years later, Nicholas was released from Roman prison and returned home. Through his prayers and leadership many professed faith in Christ. On December 6, around 343 A.D., Saint Nicholas died, but his legend lived on around the world.
When the Catholic church began celebrating Christmas, Saint Nicholas was incorporated into the festivities. But as the Protestant Reformation swept Europe, many countries no longer desired St. Nicholas, a Catholic, as their symbol of Christmas. His name was changed, though the legend remained the same. In France he became Pere Noel. In England, Father Christmas. In Germany, Weihnachtsmann, or Christmas man. In Russia, following the Communist revolution, he became Grandfather Frost. To the Dutch he was known as Sinterklaas. And in America, the Dutch name for Nicholas evolved into Santa Claus.
The Santa Claus we know today, although his image was created by an artist for a Coca-Cola ad, still bears a resemblance to St. Nicholas. His clothes are an adaptation of those worn by Nicholas - red bishop's robes, hat and cape, and with a flowing white beard.
Were St. Nicholas alive today, however, he would likely quickly refuse the attention he currently receives. As a humble and dedicated servant of Christ, he saw himself as Nicholas the sinner, servant of Christ - a title all Christians should be quick to claim as we celebrate the coming of Jesus, His subsequent death, promised resurrection, and the gift of eternal life He offers us all.
Resource: Santa
Was A Christian © copyright 1997
Source: The Santa Claus Page of the Saint Nicholas the Wonderwork Pages Copyright 1999, Steve Parsons. Used by permission.
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