Top of the Morning…
On March 17, 461 A.D., the Christian missionary, bishop and apostle of Ireland, died in Saul, Downpatrick, Ireland. He is honored with the annual holiday of St. Patrick's Day. Patrick was actually born in Great Britain and at age 16 was kidnapped by Irish raiders. He was taken back to Ireland and worked as a shepherd for six years. It was during this time that he became a devout Chrisitan. Spending time alone and outdoors he began to dream of sharing Christ with the Irish "Celtic" people. He shares in his biography that he heard the voice of God tell him it was time to leave Ireland, so he successfully escaped and returned home. Shortly after returning home, in a dream he had a vision to return to Ireland to share the Gospel. He began his religious training and after 15 years of preparation he returned to Ireland where he ministered.
There is much folklore and legends about St. Patrick. One that probably is true is that he utilized the shamrock to teach the concept of the Trinity. The Celts considered the "seamroy" a sacred plant that symbolized the arrival of spring. Patrick used the three leaves of the clover to visually teach about the Father, Son, and Holy Spirit. One thing for sure was that Patrick went from a captive to an ambassador of freedom sharing the Gospel with a world that he fell in love with. He made the best of his situation, even as a teen, and became a world changer.
St. Patrick's day is a day full of fun celebrations with food, parades, and traditions. This year let's add a tradition by finding a way to make a positive difference in someone's life. Let's look at our challenges as opportunities and be willing to be used by God, much like St. Patrick did. I promise it is better than the "luck" from "kissing the Blarney stone" or even finding a "pot of gold".
Sunday, St. Patrick's Day, I hope you will join us at FCC. Kenny Meeks and our Praise Band will be leading our Worship. And following our service, we will enjoy our St. Patrick's Day Potluck. Also, many of us "old timers" attended Franklin High. The FHS band is representing Tennessee and marching on Saturday in the NY City St. Patrick's Day Parade. And our own Drew Porter was born on March 17. (Being married to Lee truly makes her a St. - St. Drew.). Again, I hope to see you Sunday, and remember ...
You ARE Loved!
Pastor Lonnie
"More in 24"
(You can reach Pastor Lonnie by calling or text 615-496-2502 or send an email to lonniecastle@gmail.com)