I saw the image today on another site and it kind of sums up what Christmas is, or should be about.
Many - especially in the secular world - forget that Santa Claus is actually Saint Nicholas, an actual Saint and a Christian who worshipped God (and of course, Jesus).
The true story of Santa Claus begins with Nicholas, who was born during the third century in the village of Patara. At the time the area was Greek and is now on the southern coast of Turkey. His wealthy parents, who raised him to be a devout Christian, died in an epidemic while Nicholas was still young. Obeying Jesus' words to "sell what you own and give the money to the poor," Nicholas used his whole inheritance to assist the needy, the sick, and the suffering. He dedicated his life to serving God and was made Bishop of Myra while still a young man. Bishop Nicholas became known throughout the land for his generosity to the those in need, his love for children, and his concern for sailors and ships.You can read more about him in the Saint Nicholas Center.
I am sure the real Saint Nicholas would be horrified by the way secular society pays homage to him instead of to Jesus - his love for the Lord being the reason Nicholas carried out his acts of charity.
What a beautiful picture! Thank you for this, Fletch!
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