St. Nicholas of Flue, also known as Brother Klaus, was a Swiss hermit, mystic, and peacemaker who lived in the 15th century. He is considered the patron saint of Switzerland and a model of Christian peacemaking.
Born in 1417 in the canton of Obwalden, Nicholas grew up as a farmer and a soldier. He married and had ten children, but he felt a call to live a more contemplative life. At the age of 50, he left his family and became a hermit in a nearby forest.
For the next 19 years, Nicholas lived a life of prayer and austerity in a small hut that he built himself. He ate only bread and water, and he spent much of his time in meditation and contemplation. Despite his isolation, Nicholas was known for his wisdom, his humility, and his kindness.
Nicholas was also called upon to be a peacemaker in his community. Switzerland was at that time plagued by civil wars between different cantons, and Nicholas was known for his ability to mediate between the warring factions. He was often called upon to help settle disputes and to bring about reconciliation.
One of the most famous stories about Nicholas concerns a conflict between the cantons of Zurich and Schwyz. The two cantons were on the brink of war, and Nicholas was called upon to mediate. He suggested that the two sides meet at a meadow outside of Lucerne, and he instructed them to bring only a single weapon: a staff.
When the representatives of Zurich and Schwyz arrived at the meadow, they found that Nicholas had built a simple wooden chapel, which he had filled with flowers and candles. Nicholas then led the two sides in prayer and urged them to make peace. After several hours of prayer and discussion, the two sides agreed to a treaty, and peace was restored.
Nicholas died in 1487 at the age of 70. He was venerated as a saint soon after his death, and his feast day is celebrated on March 21. Nicholas is remembered as a model of Christian holiness, a peacemaker, and a man of great wisdom and compassion.
As we reflect on the life of St. Nicholas of Flue, we are reminded of the importance of prayer, solitude, and contemplation in the Christian life. We are also reminded of the need for peacemakers in our world today, and of the power of prayer and mediation to bring about reconciliation and healing.
May the example of St. Nicholas of Flue inspire us to live lives of holiness, wisdom, and compassion, and may we follow his example in working for peace and reconciliation in our families, our communities, and our world.