Day 77 - St. Patrick's Day

 

While many today do not know the history of St. Patrick's Day, the man himself had quite a story. 

Patrick was born in England back in the late 300's. He was kidnapped around age 16 and sold as a slave in Ireland. During his time in slavery, he turned to religion and to God, converting to Christianity and becoming devout in his faith. After about 6 years of slavery, Patrick escaped back to his family in Ireland. However, he felt that God was calling him back to the people of Ireland. After much training, Patrick went back to Ireland to convert the people to Christianity and to encourage the Christians already living there. It is said that he used the shamrock to explain the Trinity - Father, Son, and Holy Spirit all making up one God. 

So even though people have taken this holiday and made it solely an excuse to party and drink, the holiday is rooted in Christ and in His work through an ordinary man who decided to listen to God and follow His call on his life. And that is worth celebrating!