The commemoration of St. Nicholas occurs fairly early during Advent and has a close association with Advent and Christmas themes. Nicholas was a fourth-century Greek bishop from Asia Minor (or modern Turkey). Many legends developed about Bishop Nicholas, but historically, there were two important characteristics of his life and ministry. These two characteristics are reflected in the traditional Gospel and Epistle assigned for this feast.
First, Nicholas was noted for his generosity and charitable giving, especially for the young. This aspect of his ministry is related to the Gospel for the day. Matthew 25:14-23 is the positive portion of the Parable of the Talents, and Nicholas was a good and faithful servant who used his inherited wealth to help people.
Secondly, as an orthodox Christian bishop, Nicholas was a defender of the truth about Jesus Christ. This aspect of his life and ministry is reflected in the Epistle verses from Hebrews 13:7-9. Nicholas was a faithful believer and minister who believed in the word of God and was not carried away "with strange and diverse doctrines." He may have been present at the First Ecumenical Council at Nicea in 325 AD, and he certainly accepted the Nicene doctrine about the person of Christ.
St. Nicholas' feast day points us to two aspects of Advent preparation for Christmas. 1) Nicholas is an example of Christian stewardship and generosity. The stories about him remind us of the Christian significance of giving gifts. As God has given us His Son and many other blessings, we should give to those around us, especially those with the greatest needs. 2) Advent and Christmas are about the identity of the Christ Child. Christmas is about the Incarnation. The child of the Virgin Mary is God the Son, who comes as a human being to save sinners. Just as St. Nicholas based his life and work on faith in Christ, so should we, during this season and always.
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