Nick – December 6
Today’s Readings: Nicholas of Myra: Psalm 145:8-13; 1 John 4:7-14; Mark 10:13-16
Today is the feast day of Saint Nicholas of Myra. He is described as a friend of children, giver of gifts, climber of chimneys, etc. While an historical figure in the life of the church, he is also known across the world by names like Saint Nick, Pere Noel, Father Christmas, or Santa Claus. Nicholas lived in the fourth century in Turkey. Stories are told of his great faith and generous spirit – particularly his penchant for giving gifts anonymously. He was a bishop in Asia Minor and was a passionate defender of the weak and destitute.
Nicholas died December 6, AD 343 and so we remember St. Nick today. In some European countries, gifts arrive on this day rather than on December 25. Presents arrive again on January 6 (Epiphany) when we remember the bright light of a celestial beacon guiding three wise men to present gifts to Jesus the infant.
Each gift given by St. Nicholas and by the Magi is a symbol of promise, prayer, and love. It is this love that we read about in Mark 10:13-16, when Jesus advocates for the children to be brought to him. “Let the little children come to me; do not stop them,” Jesus says. The Messiah sees the hope and glory and promise in each young life. “For it is to such as these that the kingdom of God belongs,” he continues. The teacher and healer takes these kids into his arms, embraces them with care, lays his hands on them, and blesses them. Because he loves them. He gives them the gift of care and attention, prayer and blessing. It is not necessarily a tangible gift. It is one of presence and respect. It is more of a feeling of warmth and belong that Jesus gives the children. This experience resonates within their senses. In this space, Jesus teaches his disciples about love and welcome.
In the first letter of John appointed on this feast day of Nicholas of Myra, we get to read the stirring words, “Beloved, let us love one another, because love is from God; everyone who loves is born of God and knows God…God’s love was revealed to us in this way: God sent his only Son into the world so that we might live through him. In this is love, not that we loved God but that he loved us…” (4:7, 9-10a) The gift of Jesus was not given to us by God so that we would love God more. Jesus came as an embodiment of God’s deep love for humankind, and as a reminder of God’s care, presence, and promise.
When you think about “Old Saint Nick” and the work of distributing gifts to children anonymously around the globe, remember that through generosity and dedication, we tell the tales while passing along reminders of God’s love. Just as Jesus worked to open the eyes of his disciples to the wonder of the young people around them, Jesus is calling us to welcome the wonder of giving and receiving the gift of love. I pray that God continues to prepare your heart so that you can be present as a child of God in the giving and receiving of love.
-- Katherine+
Questions for Reflection
Think about what it would be like to give gifts totally anonymously this year. How would you feel as the giver? What would it be like to receive gifts anonymously? Where is God in these experiences?
Daily Challenge
Research Saint Nicholas of Myra and read about the stories of his life and ministry. Listen for the ways his legacy inspires you to live into faith.