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The Generosity of Saint Nicholas

As Christmas Day draws near, we often hear stories of generosity, kindness, and the spirit of giving. But perhaps no story has inspired these virtues more than the life of St. Nicholas—a real man whose faith-filled generosity continues to echo through the centuries. Long before red suits and reindeer entered the picture, Nicholas lived a quiet, Christ-centered life marked by sacrificial love. His story reminds us that the true meaning of Christmas isn’t found in what we receive, but in how we reflect the love of Jesus to others. A Childhood Shaped by Faith—and Loss Nicholas was born around A.D. 280 into a wealthy Christian family in Patara, a bustling port city in modern-day Turkey. From an early age, his parents taught him the teachings of Jesus—especially the call to care for the poor and the vulnerable. Their daily example planted seeds of compassion that would later bear extraordinary fruit. A tragedy occurred when Nicholas was still young. An epidemic claimed the lives of both his parents, leaving him orphaned—but also leaving him with a significant inheritance. In his grief, Nicholas turned to his faith. Rather than clinging to his wealth, he saw it as a means to serve others and live out the gospel. Nicholas became known for quietly helping those in desperate situations. His most famous act of generosity involved a poor man and his three daughters. In that culture, a dowry was required for marriage. Without it, the daughters faced the horrifying prospect of being sold into slavery. Moved by their plight, Nicholas acted—secretly. Under the cover of night, he delivered a bag of gold to the family, securing the eldest daughter's future. He returned twice more, each time providing enough to ensure another daughter could marry safely. When the father eventually discovered Nicholas’s identity, Nicholas urged him to thank God alone. He took Jesus’ words to heart: “When you give to the needy, do not let your left hand know what your right hand is doing” (Matthew 6:3). Nicholas didn’t seek recognition—only faithfulness. A Shepherd With Courage and Conviction Later in life, Nicholas became the bishop of Myra, where his compassion expanded beyond individuals to an entire community. He was known for defending the poor, standing up for the innocent, and shepherding his people with deep love. During the persecution of Christians under Emperor Diocletian, Nicholas risked imprisonment for his faith. He later attended the Council of Nicaea in A.D. 325, standing firm for the truth of the gospel. Yet what truly defined him wasn’t his position—it was his Christlike love. Nicholas lived as if true wealth was found not in possessions, but in a living relationship with God. After his death on December 6, A.D. 343, stories of Nicholas’s generosity spread across generations. He became known as a protector of children, a patron of sailors, and a symbol of selfless giving. Over time, his life inspired the figure we now associate with Santa Claus—but behind the legend stands a man devoted to glorifying God. The story of St. Nicholas challenges us to reconsider the meaning of Christmas. His life wasn’t about extravagant gifts or public praise. It was about embodying the love of Christ—sacrificial, humble, and freely given. Living the True Meaning of Christmas This Christmas, as we exchange gifts and gather with loved ones, let’s remember that the greatest gift has already been given—Jesus Christ, who came to save sinners and offer eternal life. Like St. Nicholas, we are called to share that gift with others. Through generosity, service, and simple acts of kindness, we can reflect the light of Christ in a world desperate for hope. As Jesus reminded us, “It is more blessed to give than to receive.” May the story of St. Nicholas inspire us to give generously, love deeply, and celebrate the true meaning of Christmas—because it’s not the gifts we receive, but the love we share, that makes this season truly special. On Today’s Program, Rob Answers Listener Questions: • I’ve heard that even if you have a will, your estate still has to go through court, but that having a trust allows you to avoid that. Is that correct? Since I currently have both a will and a trust, is it advisable to keep both? • I’m the CFO of a company that’s considering a sale. The CEO wants to sell to a buyer I’m concerned could ultimately harm the company. Given my role, what counsel or perspective can I offer the CEO as we consider this decision? • I’m 82 years old and have lost my eyesight, which makes it difficult to write checks and pay bills. What options are available for setting up automatic bill pay or managing my finances more easily? • I’ll be retiring soon—I turn 62 next year—and I still owe about $119,000 on my home. I work part-time, and my husband works full-time. Should I start collecting Social Security now, even though I’ll continue working, so we can pay off the house more quickly? • My husband and I...