The generosity of Saint Nicholas: Inspiration for Advent and life

We begin the liturgical year with Advent, a time that precedes a great celebration: Christmas. Advent brings with it the feast of Saint Nicholas, a man created by God and placed in the history of humanity like any other. This man knew how to listen to God’s voice within and direct his life toward the fullness of Christ. He built a foundation of faith, generosity, and poverty in his life, following Jesus' example. However, his image has been plagiarized by a commercial figure, losing, through centuries of cultural evolution and blending traditions, the true legacy of this saint.

Saint Nicholas was born in Patara, a small town in Lycia, in what is now Turkey, into a very wealthy family. When his parents passed away, he inherited a great fortune, which he distributed among the poor. One of the oldest stories tells of a neighbour who had three daughters of marriageable age but not enough money to secure their futures. Saint Nicholas realized that this neighbour planned to sell his daughters to escape the poverty overwhelming them.He decided to act to save the young women from a future of prostitution. One night, he wrapped several gold coins in a cloth, went to the neighbour's house, and threw them through the window, fleeing quickly to avoid being recognized.

Nicholas repeated this generous act twice more. On the third night, the girls' father managed to catch a glimpse of his benefactor. However, Saint Nicholas begged him not to tell anyone. Thanks to his generosity, the three young women were able to marry and avoid an unfortunate fate.

This saint voluntarily gave up his wealth, becoming one with the poor, embracing their reality, and acting to address it. He sought no recognition, no praise for his deeds. His only goal was to help, love, and serve those who suffered. That is the true meaning and value of Saint Nicholas.

Today, in a fast-paced world that seeks social approval through trends and brands, especially during this season leading up to Christmas, the image of Santa Claus is used as a figure promoting “generosity,” but in a way that encourages “buying” to “give.” Its purpose is purely commercial, forgetting the original call: to give up one’s own wealth out of love, seeking the well-being of others.

What are our riches? They are likely not gold coins. What should we give up, then? Following Saint Nicholas' example—who sought the well-being of others and loved selflessly, even to the point of losing everything so others could be well—we must let go of hatred, selfishness, pride, arrogance, and authoritarianism. These are “riches” that build barriers between brothers and sisters, increase divisions, and diminish communion.

Through his testimony of generosity, service, and dedication, Saint Nicholas invites us to live with that same spirit, not only during Advent but in our everyday lives. On December 6th, the Church celebrates and remembers with great devotion and admiration the life of this great saint. Remembering him and defending his memory from images born of cultural evolution and mixed traditions is our mission as Christians, living the true call to serve those most in need.