As we step into Advent–and prepare for Christmas–a Saint who particularly pops up in the news this time of year is St. Nicholas. Far from being a jolly, cookie-eating present-giver, St. Nick was notorious in his own day for one particular incident:
He punched a perceived heretic square in the face.
His action isn’t something to be praised–obviously–but it at least gives hope to those of us who are daunted by own imperfections. During these weeks leading up to Christmas, if you find yourself on the brink of snapping at a relative or an overworked store-employee, remember St. Nick. Ask him to beg the Lord to unclench your spiritual fist.
Read the entire story of St. Nicholas in this great post by Taylor Marshall (check out the icons and paintings depicting the incident, too):