It’s well known that St. Nicholas, a sixth-century bishop, is behind our use of the secular “icon” of Christmas, Santa Claus. The legends of Nicholas involve his generosity to those in need. The most famous story involves how he anonymously tossed a bag of money through a window to provide the dowry of a young woman who would otherwise be forced into an unpleasant marriage. The details of Nicholas’s life are few; but legends often have a kernel of truth, and if so, he forms a worthy basis for reflection during this season of preparation for Christmas.
Jesus’ earthly ministry was full of unexpected and surprising gifts. In today’s Gospel he offers the gift of healing and forgiveness to a man who comes, not through the window, but through the roof, to encounter Jesus. The dramatic scene of a paralyzed figured being lowered into a dim and dusty circle of people, to the feet of Jesus, parallels the dramatic “breaking in” of God’s reign. The prophet Isaiah in today’s First Reading points to such dramatic transformations.
Advent is a time to expect God’s intervention in our lives. It may be dramatic, or—more typically—quiet and perhaps not immediately evident. God may even use a bit of stealth, as the legendary Nicholas did, to gift us. May we keep the windows of our heart open!
—adapted from the book Advent with the Saints: Daily Reflections
by Greg Friedman, OFM
1 thought on “Advent with the Saints: Nicholas”
Well said!