One of Satan's Tricks
When I think about the original St. Nicholas and what kind of
man he might have been, I think he was a Christian who loved
God, and thus grew a heart of compassion for people.
He was humble and sincere in his service, as he chose to obey
God's Word in keeping his alms a secret ... desiring the glory
to belong to God (anyone, who's ever loved God more than
himself, wouldn't have it any other way) - and he didn't require
a special holiday to consider another's need.
St. Nicholas may not have been jolly on every occasion, as he
lived in the real world - just like the rest of us. However, I
believe he did have true joy in his heart because he was in tune
with his Maker.
St. Nicholas was a common man with an uncommon heart, who
allowed himself to be used by God in both his church and
community. He would have thought his gesture of good will to be
small potatoes in comparison to the gift of Jesus.
If he had known the perversion in commercialism and greed that
would ensue, I think it would have made St. Nicholas feel
absolutely sick. And, if St. Nicholas would have known He'd take
precedence over Jesus, I believe he would have cursed the day
his secret gift was discovered.
I also think St. Nicholas would have wanted us to know what
Webster's New World Dictionary has to say, "Nick (nik), n. the
Devil: usually Old Nick," as well as others referring to goblin
and demon. It seems to me Old St. Nick was just another one of
Satan's tricks ... and it worked.
The above is the only article I've ever written wherein I
shared my opinion, not just what God had revealed to me. It was
written in conclusion to a historical account of the original
St. Nicholas that was taught in my local church. And, it wasn't
too hard to receive, considering I want to believe that,
underneath, people are basically good.
The one time I listened to teachings of men, I got suckered.
It was only thereafter that I discovered the story was a
cover-up to the truth that St. Nicholas hated children. A
gentleman of that original faith stated, "What difference does
it make? That isn't who he is, now."
My question, then, is, "How is Santa Clause any different from
any other fairy tale?" Ok, no it isn't. My real question is the
same one it has always been, the same one that challenged the
historical tale in the first place. "How can we expect children
to believe us concerning things of God, when we lie to them
about Santa Clause?"
Santa Clause has never visited our home and Just knowing that
mom will always tell the truth has instilled a trust in them
that is invaluable, and has adverted them following many
doctrines of men.
Preserve one's child-like faith at all cost. The rewards are
Heavenly!
I have no greater joy than to hear that my children walk in
truth. 3 John 1:4
Revised