“Never will I leave you; never will I forsake you.” – Hebrews 13:5
St. Patrick’s writings – especially his autobiography Confessio – reveal his firm belief that he was never alone because God was with him throughout his life. He relied on God’s presence to give him confidence every day.
“Dear God, thank you for always being there for me. No matter where I go or what happens, you’re with me. St. Patrick knew you were with him every step of the way. Help me remember you’re right here with me, too. Sometimes, I get so caught up in everything that I forget you’re even here. Please show me how to notice your presence with me throughout my day. When I feel lonely, remind me I’m never really alone. When I’m overwhelmed, help me find peace knowing you’re walking right beside me, guiding and holding me up with your love. If I’m having a great or tough day, help me always know you’re here. I want to see glimpses of your work around me all day long. Please speak to me in my quiet thoughts and all the beautiful things you’ve made. Help me experience the wonder of your work every day. I never want to take being inspired by you for granted. Like St. Patrick, who wanted to connect with you and be inspired with awe regularly, I’m inviting you into every part of my day. Be with me when I wake up, go to sleep, and all the time between. Help me live every moment with an awareness of your wonderful presence with me. Thank you, God. I love you. Amen.”
In conclusion, St. Patrick’s Day can be much more than just a holiday to have fun. It can be a special prayer day to honor God and St. Patrick, who had a strong prayer life. When you celebrate St. Patrick’s Day this year, let St. Patrick’s relationship with God inspire you to pray. Then look forward to how God will answer your prayers – just as God did for St. Patrick – in incredible ways!
Photo Credit Ben White via Unsplash
