The Real Saint Patrick 6
God in His tender mercy allowed Patrick, an ordinary person just like most of us today, to be in situations where he could hear God speaking to him. Patrick responded with faith in God’s care and love in the midst of danger and temptations.
Modern day remembrances of St. Patrick on March 17 don’t show the depth of his faith which is disclosed in an ancient Irish hymn thought to unveil Patrick’s inner feelings and intimate relationship with Christ:
Christ be with me, Christ within me,
Christ behind me, Christ before me,
Christ beside me, Christ to win me,
Christ to comfort me and restore me,
Christ beneath me, Christ above me,
Christ in quiet, Christ in danger,
Christ in hearts of all that love me,
Christ in mouth of friend or stranger.
Coffee/tea thought:. As we finish this series on Patrick, let’s ponder the above words attributed to him. What invitation do you hear for the Holy Spirit?
John
Ref: Hymn “Saint Patrick’s Breastplate,” 5th century, tr. Mrs. C. F. Alexander.
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