The Genuine and Original (Repost)

Editor's Note: December 6 marks the Feast of Saint Nicholas of Myra (270-343 CE), the source of many legends around the Christmas season. Stories around his life and ministry have endured serious revision over the centuries. Steve Bell (another poet/singer/songwriter) writes about this in Pilgrim Year: Advent: "From his beginnings as the beloved Bishop of Myra and champion of the poor in the early fourth century, to the Coca-Cola endorsing, ruddy-faced red elf of the 21st century, Nicholas' fame has been appropriated to inspire sincere empathy in some and excessive consumption in others." 

While little information is known about the historic saint, legends suggest he was renowned for secret gift-giving and had deep compassion for children. His generosity was driven by his love for God and it birthed a passionate desire to share with others out of the material blessings he had received. To learn more, click here.

As today's poem by Frank Nickel suggests, the current picture of "St. Nick" or "Santa" is a very far cry from the original man who loved and served God. He, more than any, would be aghast that his distorted image has displaced that of Jesus as "the generous giver of good gifts" in many Christmas celebrations. This year, may you remember to keep your eyes on Jesus, the Reason for the Season!

The Genuine and Original

Where ever there is counterfeit
the genuine can be found;
and where the imitations are, 
the original has been ’round.

Where something excellent exists,
you’ll find the copy-cat;
who sells for cheaper price and claims,
“It’s just as good as that!”

Oh, yes, there’ll be a lot who try
to get into the act,
and peddle junk as though ’twere gold
and fiction, as ’twere fact.

Just who invented Santa Claus?
And whom would they crowd out,
while telling youthful, trusting hearts 
that he’s not one to doubt.

An imitation may at times
not really be so bad,
but worthless counterfeit for truth,
that, friend, indeed is sad!

When celebrating Christmas,
with gifts and much ado,
consider implications
of the counterfeit and true!

fpn/undated

Artwork: Tamás Kolozsvári, Wheat Miracle of St. Nicholas of Myra, 1427. Tempera on wood, Christian Museum, Esztergom, Hungary.