The writings of Patrick (3)

So, in the first place, I an exile am,
a plainly rustic and unlearnèd man,
who knows not how he should provide for his
own future. At the same time, I of this
one thing am certain: I was once abased,
just like a fallen stone, or one that’s placed
into deep mire, and the Almighty came
and through the goodness of His gracious name,
He lifted me, and set me high upon
a wall. Because of this I raise my song
and ought to shout aloud to thank and praise
the Lord for all His blessings, all the ways
He cares for me both here and in the age
to come, so many that the wisest sage
could not begin to comprehend them all.
So be astonished, all of you, the small
and great alike, who fear the Lord. And you,
most reverend doctors, listen closely to
my words, and pay attention. Who raised me –
yes, stupid me – unto this ministry,
from out of those who seemed to be so wise
and skilled in rhetoric and law? Whose eyes
with favor looked on me and burdened and
prepared me for my mission to this land,
and brought me here to be of service to
this people, in humility and truth?

And so I take it as a measure of
my faith in God, and in His Triune love,
that, not regarding danger, I made known
God’s gift and the eternal peace His own
may have as He provides; and that I spread
His name through this land, from foot to head,
both dutifully and without fear. And thus
I have a legacy of those who trust
the Lord – so many thousands of my sons
and brothers – whom by labors I have won
to Him, and baptized in His holy name.
This is my burden, and my only claim.
 
For more about Patrick and the impact of his ministry, order a copy of The Legacy of Patrick, by T. M. Moore from our online store.