I never liked Santa Claus. My parents had taught me from childhood that Christmas was for Christ, and I held that belief firmly. While other children spent their Decembers writing "Dear Santa" letters and clamoring for "Kodak moment" pictures beside the man in red at the mall, I wanted nothing to do with the overweight, white-bearded impostor who seemed to be taking baby Jesus' place of honor.

But two Christmases ago, a talent company had signed me to host a show that would feature dancers, acrobats, opera singers, cartoon character mascots, and of course, their special Yuletide guest--Santa Claus.

And so, ironically, there I was on stage, microphone in hand, belting out the counterfeit's song: "He's makin' a list, and checkin' it twice, he's gonna find out who's naughty or nice..."

I wish there was a way to help the children think about Jesus in the middle of all this, I thought as jolly Saint Nick came bounding in.

He was carrying a big red sack of goodies, and that gave me an idea. Perhaps we could offer a special prize to whoever could answer the question: Whose birthday are we celebrating on Christmas?

As Santa pranced around the fancily lit stage and then stepped down to greet the children, I waited for an opportunity. But I never got the chance. The stage director signaled for me to hurry the program along and pass the mike to Santa so he could give a special message.

I imagined that he would captivate the children with tales of the North Pole and flying reindeer, but instead, this Santa Claus hushed the children and, with a friendly smile, said, "I want to tell you kids something, so you will all have to be quiet and listen."

He sat down on the stage and the children crowded around him, each anxious to be the first to receive a gift from the glittering red bag.

"We must never forget why we celebrate Christmas," Santa continued. "We must never forget the real reason. It's not just about parties with yummy food and presents, you know! And..."--he paused and beamed an even bigger smile--"I will give a special prize to whoever can answer this question: Whose birthday are we celebrating on Christmas?"

All the children tried to outdo each other as they yelled, "Jesus! It's Jesus' birthday!"

"Yes," answered Santa Claus, "and you must always remember to pray and thank Jesus for everything!" He turned to me. "Isn't that right?"

I smiled and nodded.

The program was perfect. The real guest of honor was remembered after all! Santa said it!