MONDAY
Last week and this week in the devotionals, we are looking at some stories of people’s encounters with the presence of God to give us some perspective on the various ways we can experience the presence of God. Last week we looked at biblical characters. This week we will explore the stories of some believers’ encounters with God in the history of the church.
Since today is St. Patrick's Day, I thought it appropriate to consider one of the most remarkable examples of God's redemptive power in Christian history. Patrick, a 5th century British native, was kidnapped at age 16 by Irish raiders and forced into slavery. For six years, he worked as a shepherd in Ireland, where his faith became his anchor in the midst of isolation and hardship.
During his captivity, Patrick's relationship with God deepened profoundly. He spent hours in prayer while tending sheep, where God transformed his suffering into spiritual growth. After six years, he escaped and returned home—but this wasn't the end of his story with Ireland.
Years later, Patrick received a vision that would alter the course of his life. In his dream, he heard the voices of the Irish people calling out to him, "We appeal to you, holy servant boy, to come and walk among us." In this vision God was calling Patrick back to the very place of his enslavement! He would return willingly, not as a slave, but as a minister of Christ's love, and not his personal vengeance.
Prior to Patrick’s ministry, Ireland mostly followed the pagan religion of the Druids. Ireland later became mostly Christian, due in large part to Patrick’s ministry. God’s work through Patrick is still celebrated today on St. Patrick’s, today. So while you wear green, eat some corned beef, and maybe enjoy a shamrock shake, remember the guy who experienced God’s call in a vision and returned to minister to his former captors.
Again, in these couple of weeks we are looking at some historical Christian’s experiences with God. In Patrick’s story, this vision and call from God provided a purpose for his pain and suffering. In his time in Ireland he learned the language and the culture so he could more effectively minister the gospel when he returned. We don’t always get this clear of a reason for our suffering, but sometimes we do. Sometimes our greatest ministry opportunities lie in the very places of our deepest wounds.
Reflection
- Consider a difficult experience in your life. How might God be redeeming that experience to prepare you for future ministry or service?
- Patrick demonstrated remarkable forgiveness toward those who had enslaved him. Is there someone in your life you need to forgive? What steps can you take toward forgiveness?
- Patrick heard God's call through a vision and responded with obedience. How do you discern God's calling in your life? What helps you recognize His voice?