Who’s Coming?
You better watch out
You better not cry
Better not pout
I’m telling you why
Santa Claus is coming to town
~ Santa Claus is coming to town
Advent is all about preparing ourselves to celebrate Christmas. Christmas is all about the two-fold comings of Jesus: His coming as a tiny babe born to the world and the time when He will come again in all of His glory. To many children, it’s hard to get past the concept that Christmas is all about Santa Claus.
Today, we focus on the origin of Santa as we celebrate the feast of St. Nicholas. Nicholas was raised by wealthy parents who died in an epidemic when he was quite young. He used his inherited wealth to care for the needy, the sick, and the suffering.
Nicholas’ example of giving to others who were in need inspired the legend of Santa Claus, a person who gave to those who had little of their own. Children embodied that idea of being powerless and in need of aid from others. That is why, to this day, so many people keep the spirit of St. Nicholas alive by caring for others and giving presents at Christmas.
Generosity is definitely one of the hallmarks of a Christian. We are to be generous with our time, generous with our material possessions, and generous with our love for others. In doing so, we act in the person of Jesus who reaches out to all the world.
Generosity is a wonderful way to prepare for Christmas during the season of Advent.
FAITH ACTION: Be generous to others in word and deed today.