The Boy Who Came Back
And, I’m so glad he did.
Some dreams take years to unfold.
For as long as I can remember, I have loved the story of Saint Patrick. Every March, my front door becomes a little tribute to his remarkable life — with a shamrock wreath, his Breastplate Prayer, and a small statue that reminds me that one life surrendered to God can change a nation.
So when Carl and I stepped off our ship in Dún Laoghaire, Ireland and traveled into Dublin, Ireland, my heart was as giddy as a child on Christmas morning.
Our tour included going to the gorgeous St. Patrick’s Cathedral. I read this — the Cathedral is a House of Prayer for all nations. It is a place where history is alive and tradition breathes, where lives are remembered and transformed, and where all are welcome to experience and explore the loving presence of God.
Patrick’s Story: Patrick was only sixteen when pirates captured him and carried him to Ireland as a slave. Alone and afraid, he tended sheep in the fields. Yet in the middle of his hardship, he discovered the presence of God. The boy who arrived in chains found freedom in Christ.
Years later, after escaping and returning home, Patrick heard God whisper an astonishing assignment: “Go back.”
Go back to the place of your pain.
Go back to the people who once enslaved you.
Go back and tell them about My love.
And he did.
Armed with faith, Patrick traveled across Ireland sharing the Gospel. Tradition says he used the humble shamrock to explain the Trinity — Father, Son, and Holy Spirit. Three leaves, one stem. Three persons, one God.
Our guide told us this is usually rainy season in Ireland, which explains the rolling emerald hills. But on the very day we arrived, the sun shone brightly, as if heaven pulled back the clouds and smiled.
Dreams really do come true.
A story heard long ago became a sacred moment standing on Irish soil. And Patrick’s life still speaks to us today: God can redeem our wounds, send us back stronger, and use our story to bring hope to others.
What the enemy meant for harm, God can turn into a testimony of grace. ☘️