He is probably the most well-known of all the saints the Christian Church commemorates, but the date of his commemoration is less known.  Most people would likely guess December 25th, but the correct date of the Commemoration of Saint Nicholas of Myra is today, December 6th.  As famous as St. Nicholas is very little is known of him historically.  I am sorry to disappoint you, but it is very unlikely that he owned a sleigh or a reindeer with a florescent red nose.  What we do know is that Nicholas was a pastor known for his conviction to the pure teaching of God’s holy Word and that he was remembered for his charitable Christian character.

The Lutheran Hour created a brief and informative video on the life of the real St. Nick.  It is an entertaining and helpful presentation that helps to distinguish between “Santa Claus” (as St. Nicholas is often thought of by most of the world) and the real historical man who loved Jesus.  In fact Nicholas was a fighter for a pure understanding of who the Christ is.  Just watch the video and you will see what I mean.  I hope you might find some time during Advent or Christmas to watch the video.  You might find this is an appropriate way to introduce your maturing children to the real St. Nick as well.

In Christ’s Service,

Pastor Estes