Happy St. Patrick's Day. I'm redheaded, and clearly have some Irish in me, but no, I don't consume adult beverages to mark the day.
In fact, it is sad how this day that marks Patrick's death in 461 A.D. has become something so uncommon with the man's life.
Patrick was born to a wealthy family in Roman Britain, but was kidnapped as a teenager and forced into slavery in Ireland. During his slavery, he witnessed the horror of the Druids and satanic influence that enveloped Ireland.
One night, God commanded Patrick to flee and board a ship back to Britain where he committed his life to serving Jesus, and later became a priest in the Church. It was during his studies and time in the ministry that God burdened him to return to the land he fled -- this time to bring Jesus to Ireland.
Patrick returned to Ireland in 433. His knowledge of the Celtic language allowed him to share Christ. Additionally, the Holy Spirit worked miracles against those who opposed Patrick, which allowed Patrick's message to hold sway over those influenced by the Druids.
During his ministry in Ireland, God prepared the way so that Patrick could address the many territorial leaders, winning many, and securing safe passage through their territories. Patrick's connection to the shamrock (three-leafed clover) is believed to have risen from one of these meetings where he used the clover to illustrate the Holy Trinity.
While there were other, more successful missionaries to visit Ireland, Patrick's bravery and determination to follow God's commands in the face of strong, supernatural opposition gained him the fame that carries on today.
So, instead of recognizing St. Patrick's Day as a day to party and get drunk, let's remember it for the man it is named after and for the God who called him to share the Gospel message to Ireland.
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