There are legends, myths and stories about St. Nicholas — some embellished to unbelievable dimensions — but we do know that Nicholas was born in a province of Asia Minor, most likely during the third century.

History records that Nicholas was a bishop of Myra, a town in Lycia. Accounts say he was persecuted and imprisoned for his faith by Roman Emperor Diocletian, but Nicholas faithfully served the Lord his entire life. After his death, St. Nicholas became a symbol of selfless giving, and by the 1400s, he became one of the most popular non-biblical figures in the Christian church. Music, art and plays celebrated his unselfish life, and stories continued to grow out of the part he played in history.

Yet, as with many stories of real-life heroes, embellishments began to transform this humble bishop into a superhero, and St. Nicholas' legacy became secularized. Through the centuries, he continued to evolve into the popular caricature we know today.

However your family deals with the Santa Claus challenge, the truth of St. Nicholas' selfless service to the One we celebrate during this season is admirable and worthy of recognition.