Mike Edmisten Follower of Jesus. Husband of Nicki. Father of Ryan & Brock. Communicator of the Word.

Keep Santa in Christmas

You don't have to look far for a church sign or billboard reminding you to "Keep Christ in Christmas." Obviously I'm in favor of keeping Jesus in Christmas since the whole thing started as a celebration of his birth. Kind of silly to have a birthday party and leave out the birthday boy.

But I'd like to make a case for keeping Santa Claus in Christmas, too. I know some Christians who choose not to do the Santa thing with their kids, and that's fine. I know others who include Santa in their Christmas traditions, and that's ok too. (My family falls in the second camp, for whatever that's worth.)

Whether you choose to participate in the modern day version of Santa Claus or not, there is a lot of value for remembering the actual historical man called St. Nicholas. Legends about this man abound. It's difficult to separate fact from fiction when it comes St. Nicholas, but this much is widely accepted to be true. He was a bishop in what is now modern-day Turkey. He was very wealthy but also quite generous. His primary concern was for the poor, so his wealth and generosity were directed toward those in need.

It was St. Nicholas' extravagant giving to the poor that made him legendary…not bringing presents to those who are already over-stuffed in every way.

Again, I really couldn't care less whether your family includes Santa in their Christmas tradition or not. But I do care very much about the legacy of St. Nicholas.

Who do you know that is need? Who is lonely? Who could use a little extra dose of Christmas cheer? And what can your family do to help them?

I hope you have a little St. Nick in your holiday this year.