November/Scholarship

The little places that were settled by twos and threes are Romes, with assemblies of hundreds and thousands. Though it be far-flung and splendid, paganism has been destroyed: the kingdom of God the Father has filled heaven, earth, and sea.

  - Oengus mac Oengobann, Feilire Oengusso (Irish, 9th century)

We destroy arguments and every lofty opinion raised against the knowledge of God, and take every thought captive to obey Christ...

  - 2 Corinthians 10.5

A typical Celtic "church" - if we can call it that - began as an outpost manned by a single hermit and perhaps an associate or two. In their little enclave they learned to depend on the Lord and to appreciate His glory in the world around them.

Gradually, they began to reach out to the surrounding peoples, helping with literacy and other basic life skills, and integrating the way of Jesus in all their relationships. Along with this, they preached the Gospel, which sometimes consisted of little more than impassioned readings of long sections of Scripture.

In time they began to win converts to Jesus and to attract disciples, who came to them for instruction and equipping. A monastery would follow - wood and thatch, not stone - and more ministry, preaching, converts, and disciples. Whole tribes and nations were won to Christ, and even the keepers of pagan culture - druids, shamans, and members of the ruling classes - converted to Jesus.

What would happen if we began to see our neighborhoods in this way? If we thought of our homes as little "hermitages" where we're learning to trust the Lord and from which we reach out to get to know, love, serve, and teach our neighbors? What if believers everywhere began to have this sense of what it means to be citizens in the Kingdom of God?

The only thing holding us back, I suppose, is, well, faith - trust in God and belief that He might use such small efforts in big Kingdom ways. If we prepare well, pray fervently, and proceed with grace and truth, we might be surprised to see what exceeding abundant above all that we've ever dared to ask or think things our heavenly King might do.

Today's ReVision challenges us to complete The Message Loop by being faithful bearers of the Word of God. Are you?

Let Patrick's story inspire you, and begin to believe God for really great things! Order your copy of The Legacy of Patrick from our bookstore today.

Thanks for praying for us and for sharing with us in this ministry. Your gifts are greatly appreciated. Use the donate button or send your contribution to The Fellowship of Ailbe, 100 Lampligher Ct., Hamilton, VA 20158.

T. M. Moore, Principal This email address is being protected from spambots. You need JavaScript enabled to view it.