What comes to mind when you hear the name Santa Claus? Most people picture a jolly man with a white beard. He wears a red suit and black boots and says “Ho! Ho! Ho! Merry Christmas!” a lot. Santa Bob, pictured here, is a perfect example.

I wonder, however, how many people know about Saint Nicholas, the man who inspired our modern-day Santa Claus. According to history and legend, Saint Nicholas lived a far different life.

Saint Nicholas was born around AD 260-280 in modern day Turkey. His parents died when he was young but left him enough money to live well. He gave much of his money to help people in need, especially children.

Saint Nicholas performed many of his good deeds at night when no one could see him. One story tells of a poor man with three daughters. With no money, the girls had little hope of marriage. As a result, the father feared he would have to sell his daughters into slavery.

When Saint Nicholas heard about this family, he tossed bags of gold through an open window of their house. The coins landed either in the stockings or shoes of the girls. Some say he tossed the gold down the chimney.

Yet Saint Nicholas’ government did not praise this generous man. Because he refused to give up his beliefs in Jesus, he was sent to prison and tortured.

When you see people in Santa Claus costumes this Christmas, remember Saint Nicholas. Remember the man who helped others and suffered for following Jesus. Remember that Christmas celebrates the birth of the Savior Saint Nicholas served.

Thanks to Santa Bob for sharing his photo and for living the true meaning of Christmas.

“For to us a child is born, to us a son is given, and the government will be on his shoulders. And he will be called Wonderful Counselor, Mighty God, Everlasting Father, Prince of Peace” (Isaiah 9:6 NIV).