Happy Saint Patrick's Day! ☘️

I’ve noticed over the past few years that many people celebrate Saint Patrick’s Day. I guess it doesn’t matter if you are Irish or you have a few genetic markers from Ireland. Saint Patty’s Day is kind of fun, and a few of the traditions have become part of the American psyche. 

Celebrating the cultural threads in our society is a good thing, isn’t it? Recognizing the exploits of a great man or woman is a good thing, right? Let’s dive in a little deeper and see what we can find out about this great man. 

Paul the Apostle once said, “Follow my example, as I follow the example of Christ.” (1 Corinthians 11:1, NIV) He later said, “The elders who direct the affairs of the church well are worthy of double honor, especially those whose work is preaching and teaching.” (1 Timothy 5:17, NIV)

friend, do you know anything about the man behind the festivities? No? That’s okay, I didn’t either until I found these five interesting facts: 

1. Patrick was a fifth-century Romano-British Christian missionary to Ireland who became its Bishop. That was a long time ago. 
2. He’s considered the founder of Christianity in Ireland. Now that’s quite a feat. He had to face the likes of druids, shamans, and other practitioners of the worship of false gods and black magic.
3. He had a rough childhood but overcame it with extreme bravery and a commitment to Christ. He grew up in Britain until he was kidnapped at the age of sixteen and brought to Ireland as a slave. He sounds a lot like Joseph.
4. He escaped slavery at 22 years of age, returned to his family in Britain, and trained for the ministry. Wow! That’s how you turn lemons into lemonade.
5. He felt a call to return to Ireland and win this dark place to Jesus Christ. Now that’s incredible, and he did it. 

His life and exploits will forever be etched in history.

Saint Patrick’s Day is really not about green beer or glistening shamrocks. It’s about a man who overcame abuse and slavery to lead an entire nation to Christ. His impact will live forever, and his legacy on Earth continues to multiply 1,500 years later.

friend, I believe your decisions can also change families. Say “yes” to Christ. Overcome abuse and hardship because you are a miracle.