Pre-Christmas Thoughts...

Pre-Christmas Thoughts from a Random Mind

 

How St. Nicholas became Santa Claus?

 

“In the 16th Century in northern Europe, after the reformation, the stories and traditions about St. Nicholas became unpopular. But someone had to deliver presents to children at Christmas, so in the UK, particularly in England, he became 'Father Christmas' or 'Old Man Christmas', an old character from stories plays during the middle ages in the UK and parts of northern Europe. In France, he was then known as 'Père Nöel'.

            In some countries including parts of Austria and Germany, the present giver became the 'Christkind' a golden-haired baby, with wings, who symbolizes the new born baby Jesus. Early on in America his name was 'Kris Kringle'.  Later, Dutch settlers in America took the old stories of St. Nicholas with them and Kris Kringle and St Nicholas became 'Sinterklaas' or as we now say 'Santa Claus'!

            Many countries, especially ones in Europe, celebrate St. Nicholas' Day on 6th December. In The Netherlands and some other European Countries, children leave clogs or shoes out on the 5th of December (St. Nicholas Eve) to be filled with presents. They also believe that if they leave some hay and carrots in their shoes for Sinterklaas's horse, they will be left some sweets. St. Nicholas became popular again in the Victorian era when writers, poets and artists rediscovered the old stories. In 1823 the famous poem 'A Visit from St. Nicholas' or 'Twas the Night before Christmas', was published initiating Santa Claus coming down the chimney and having 8 reindeer.” 

            Santa Claus himself isn’t a bad symbol for giving help to those less fortunate in the form of money or small gifts, especially for the children. These are all innocent endeavors but should never serve as a replacement for Christ.  As the often seen sign says: “Keep Christ in Christmas”. For without Christ we have nothing, and the celebration of Christmas is nothing more than a series of lifeless gestures based on the perpetual goodness of man, which is sporadic and often times conditional at best. Until next time, walk with the King & be a blessing!

 

In His Name & for His glory,

Rich Keller

Bread of Life Ministries

 

From www.whychristmas.com