Some of Patrick’s claims can seem far-fetched. But he made them before people all over Ireland who could certify their truth. Here, in today’s excerpt from Patrick: A Devotional History, Patrick summarizes the blessings of God on his work. This excerpt is from pages 47 and 48:
“Because I owe so much to God, He gave
me this great boon: That through me He would save
so many heathen, who would be confirmed
as followers of Christ; that in my term
a clergy should be raised to care for them—
so many thousands of the finest men
of Ireland; and that churches by the scores
of hundreds should be built, where they adore
the Lord of glory; and that thousands should
be taught to read the Scriptures, that the good
and perfect will of God they might discern,
that they to follow Him in love might learn.
“The bishops in Britain may have sought to throttle Patrick’s ministry, but Patrick understood that he was not accountable to them. Since they had not sent him to Ireland—indeed, they resisted his going—he looked only to those believers already in Ireland for instruction, guidance, and accountability. And they were more than happy to have Patrick among them, and the blessings of the Lord which he brought.
“Patrick here summarizes his ministry of many years. Multitudes won to Christ. Pastors and teachers trained and equipped to oversee churches and make disciples. Hundreds of churches brought into being. And many taught to read the Scriptures which were being made available from various monasteries.
“And the focus of his ministry was to teach people to love the Lord and follow Him. In other words, discipleship.“Patrick understood that none of this would have been possible apart from the grace of God. God gave him all that he needed to do the work to which he had been called. And Patrick gave God all the glory for the seeds that took root and the fruit which blossomed from his work.”
For reflection or discussion
1. What fruit are you seeking from your ministry? Do you pray that God will grant you such fruit?
2. Only God can bring sch fruit, but we must continue to sow and cultivate. How’s that going in your ministry?
What a privilege it is to be co-laborers with God. He is working through us to bring glory to Himself and Good News to the world. Opportunities to sow good Kingdom seed abound to us daily. Let’s make sure we don’t miss them. Share today’s podcast with a friend, then get together to talk about how the Lord is working through your ministry. You can download a free PDF copy of our 30-day devotional, Patrick: A Devotional History, by going to The Ailbe Bookstore.
T. M. Moore
