St. Patrick’s Day has become all about green, shamrocks, and the luck of the Irish but that is not how it started. St. Patrick died on March 17, 461 and after he was sainted the day was chosen to celebrate his ministry. He had spent his life sharing the Gospel and ministering to the people of Ireland.
Shamrocks are green and it seems to be the “color” of Ireland. But, shamrocks were not originally associated with this day because of their color or they were considered lucky. The three-leaf stems were used by St. Patrick to teach about the Holy Trinity while he served as Bishop in Ireland spreading the Gospel.
The media and advertising industry often use the phrase “the luck of the Irish.” However, when something good happens I prefer to believe that it is a blessing not just luck. Our family has been very blessed on St. Patrick’s Day by the birth of our sweet grand-nieces.
Thanks to her mommy, Kristi, for the photos!
Thanks to her mommy, Stephanie, for the photos!
We pray that as these sweet girls grow they will choose to follow the example of St. Patrick in sharing the Gospel with the people in their world.
As we celebrate his day this year by wearing green or enjoying a corned beef and cabbage dinner, we need to reflect on the bishop’s example and ask the Lord to help us share the Gospel with the world around us.
We don’t know but maybe St. Patrick spoke this blessing over the people of Ireland:
May the road rise to meet you,
May the wind be always at your back,
May the sun shine warm upon your face,
The rains fall soft upon your fields and,
Until we meet again,
May God hold you in the palm of His hand.
Blessings on you this St. Patrick’s day!
Sharing my heart,
