Is Santa Clause Real?

Parents who "Do Santa" dread the day when their kids come home from school with doubt and despair written all over their faces.  When little Tommy looks you in the eyes, teetering on the brink of despair, and asks, "Mommy, is Santa real?" They fear the schoolyard joy steal-er told them the truth but hope you will keep the magic alive for one more Christmas.

Many parents struggle with the idea of lying to their children.  Others do not want to rob kids of a special childhood joy.  I believe there is an honest answer that threads the needle.

I love to say, "I absolutely believe in the Spirit of St. Nicholas!"  There is no ethical quandary for me in doing so.  Nicholas was raised in a wealthy Christian home on what is today the Southern coast of Turkey.  His parents died when he was young so Nicholas took his inheritance and used it to help others in need.  His dedication to Christ and generous deeds led to him becoming the Bishop of Myra.  He was known for his dedication to the poor, to children, and those who traveled the seas.  His faith eventually landed him in prison under the Roman ruler Diocletian.  If the historical accounts of his faith, suffering, and good deeds are true then I believe he was indeed filled with the Holy Spirit.  It is that belief which allows me to say that I believe in the, "Spirit of St. Nicholas."

The true Spirit of St. Nicholas is the Holy Spirit of Almighty God.  This Spirit reveals Christ and draws us to salvation.  The Holy Spirit in our heart leads us to love, charity, and good deeds.  It is this Spirit who gives us words and grace to endure times of challenge.  So when I say, "I believe in the Spirit of St. Nicholas" I am telling the absolute truth.  Because I do believe in the Holy Spirit, and salvation, and good deeds, and charity.

So while I am radically committed to making Christmas about Jesus Christ, who is the true reason for the season, I am not opposed to the presence of Santa.  As children become older it is wonderful to introduce them to the reality of the true St. Nicholas, and help them understand all the joy and magic he brought to Christmas was because of his personal and radical commitment to the Lord Jesus Christ. 

So I say again, "I really do believe in the Spirit of St. Nicholas, and the Christ St. Nicholas served!"  Don't you?