The perversion in the contemporary world of all that is holy and pure proceeds without abatement. It reminds one of the prophecy from Isaiah Chapter 8, "the spoil speeds, the plunder hastens," a prophecy to which we return during this time of the coming in the flesh of our Lord.
But specifically I speak of the perverting of the image of Saint Nicholas, whose Feast we celebrate on this day. How many miracles have we come to know of related to this wonderful saint of the church? They seem innumerable. And yet, every time we think we've heard them all, yet another comes to us from yet a different source. We'll not take the time nor space here to detail these. It is profitable research for those who wish to do so, however.
The world has taken a man who is the image of purity, the image of love, the image of peace, and most of all, the Image of Christ, and they have attempted to cover all that he is. I do not say, "all that he WAS," because Saint Nicholas' impact on our lives continues unabated until this very day, and will continue until our Lord returns.
They've covered his omophorion in red velvet and white fur. They've covered his bishop's mitre with a funny little hat. They've taken his physical poverty and spiritual wealth and turned them upside down, giving the impression that he has unlimited physical resource, and a spirit that's good only for a good laugh now and then.
This is the world's (and the enemy's) means of attacking the Image of Christ.
Don't allow it! For the sake of the memory of this truly great Saint, remember him for who he truly is. He is the image of his Master, our Lord and Savior Jesus Christ! As we pray for his intercessions, we should pray to share in the image he shows us.
The final verse of the hymn we sing in his honor on this day belongs here:
Holy Saint, listen to our prayers.
Let not life lead us to despair.
All our efforts aren't in vain,
Singing praises to your name;
Holy Father, Nicholas!
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