Patrick’s vision filled Him with courage and resolve. He fled his captor, and began the journey of following the Lord which would, in the words of Thomas Cahill, “save civilization”. Today’s excerpt from Patrick: A Devotional History is found on pages 36 and 37:
“I have no problem believing Patrick’s report. God had a special work for him. How was he to learn of it except from God? His fasts and prayers demonstrated his reliance on God, and his diligence about the work of keeping sheep helped to ready him for his great calling and task. He had been a slave for six years. Now it was time for the next stage of Patrick’s growth. God led him to flee his master and guided and cared for him until he arrived at his home in Britain.
“We do not look for God to speak to us these days in visions and dreams. We have His Word, which is sufficient to show us Jesus in His glory and to equip us for every good work. But not everyone is as blessed. Reports regularly trickle out from parts of the world, where the Scriptures are not available, of God or an angel appearing to individuals in a dream or vision to guide their steps to Jesus. Such theophanies are not God’s ordinary way of making known Himself and His will, and those who come to Jesus by such visions soon learn that Scripture is God’s chosen means of communicating with His people.
“This was Patrick’s experience as well. His brief Confession and Letter Against the Soldiers of Coroticus contain over 125 references or allusions to Scripture, demonstrating Patrick’s commitment to the Word as his guide for life. But he would not have turned to Scripture, much less embraced his mission to the Irish people, had not God come to him in an extraordinary manner.
“God is free to do whatever He thinks is best to keep us moving forward in His plan. Many believers have known extraordinary experiences in which they have sensed the leading of God, though without a vision or voice. Yet just as it took a vision and the voice of God to move Peter to evangelize the Gentiles, so He reached Patrick where no written Word existed, no preacher or counselor was available, and no other means would do to launch a 22-year-old youth on one of the most remarkable and God-honoring ministries in Christian history.”
For reflection or discussion
1. Jesus has sent us into the world to make disciples. What challenges are you facing as you take up this mission each day?
2. How does the Word of God lead and equip you for your mission?
Like Patrick, we have all been sent by Jesus to make disciples and build His Church. He has given us His Spirit and His Spirit gives us power and gifts to do the work appointed to us. Our lives can be as great an adventure of faith as Patrick’s was, but we must listen—each day—for the voice of God in His Word. Share today’s podcast with a friend, then get together to discuss the work Jesus has given you to do. 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
