“Therefore, go and make disciples.”
- Matthew 28:19 NLT
Rekindling A Heart For The Lost
St. Patrick’s Day often conjures thoughts of Leprechauns, four-leaf clovers, and green milkshakes. But did you know there is a much deeper meaning behind this holiday? St. Patrick was a real person whose life is worth taking a closer look at.
As a teenager, Patrick was kidnapped by pirates and sold into slavery in Ireland. During this time, he became a Christian. After becoming free, he came back to Ireland and helped to lead 130,000 people to Jesus and establish 300 churches.
So, as we look at Patrick’s story, what lessons can we learn from his life?
First, it’s important to know St. Patrick was surrounded by a pagan culture. Think about the difficulty of being a voice to a culture opposed to Christ. Despite the challenges this presented, Patrick persevered because his heart broke for those who didn’t know Jesus. He desired to “make disciples of all nations.” - Matthew 28:19
Can you imagine the pain Patrick experienced being sold into slavery? Coming back to where he had once been sold like a piece of property must have been traumatic. Feelings of anger, betrayal, and resentment would have tried to take control of his attitude. But his heart for sharing the good news motivated him to release all the pain to God. Patrick clearly had a heart of compassion, wanting to see the lost become found.
Today’s culture is a lot like the culture Patrick lived and ministered in. Many hated the name “Jesus,” and many still do today. Like Patrick, you may feel hated and persecuted by the world. It’s normal to feel like we want to withdraw from our hurt.
We must ask God to help us not become angry but instead give us his loving eyes for them. We have this season now to spread hope to a hurting nation that needs Jesus Christ the cure. This is our mission.
What does that look like for us? It can be as simple as taking a prayer walk in your neighborhood and praying for the salvation of those around you. It can be inviting someone to church or streaming service with your family. It can be starting a book club, taking a box of goodies with an encouraging Bible verse on them, sharing your story with them, and asking them to share your story with you.
One thing is for sure- We will experience opposition. Not everyone will be receptive to the message of the gospel. But our job is to plant seeds of hope wherever we go. The hope is Jesus. Jesus is the greatest gift we give to people.
Dig Deeper
- What are two lessons that stand out to you from the life of St. Patrick?
- What is one helpful way you can share Jesus in your home and in your neighborhood?
- Pray this prayer: “Lord, give me boldness to share my faith.” I pray for doors of opportunity to open for sharing Jesus. Give me a heart of love and compassion for those who are looking for hope but don’t know they need you. Help me to be a voice of hope to those around me. In Jesus’ name. Amen.”
