Pastor Dan Longmore
Devotional Message
Saint Patrick is celebrated for his role in bringing Christianity to the Irish people during the 5th century. Born in Roman Britain, he was kidnapped and enslaved in Ireland as a young man, but later escaped and returned, dedicating his life to missionary work. Saint Patrick is renowned for using the shamrock to explain the Holy Trinity and for his enduring legacy, commemorated annually on March 17 with festivals and parades across Ireland and around the world.
2 Timothy 4:7-8 I have fought the good fight, I have finished the race, and I have remained faithful. 8 And now the prize awaits me - the crown of righteousness, which the Lord, the righteous Judge, will give me on the day of his return. And the prize is not just for me but for all who eagerly look forward to his appearing. (New Living Translation)
I wonder if Saint Patrick had much of the same sentiment as the Apostle Paul when he approached the end of his life? While Patrick’s young life was filled with hardship he persevered and returned to Ireland to share the Gospel of Christ with those who were searching for peace and hope in a troubled land. Centuries later many around the world celebrate Saint Patrick’s Day.
True, many use this day to watch a parade or as an excuse to get drunk. Yet many people are in the presence of Jesus today because Patrick was faithful. Rough teen years many of which were spent in slavery did not turn Patrick from his faith. Rather he used these six plus years of being an enslaved herdsman to pray and dedicate his life to serving the Lord.
So like Paul, Patrick was fought the good fight and finished the race fulfilling the call God laid upon his heart. Today, perhaps you are in a very difficult situation or you doubt whether your life is having any impact. I am sure the Apostle Paul and Patrick felt this way at times. Yet here we are today in 2026 thinking about the faith and legacy of Saint Patrick. So keep pressing on in your service for the Lord, keep fighting the good fight of faith. No one may ever throw a parade in your honor but your reward will indeed be out of this world.
Pastor Dan
Marsh Creek Brethren in Christ Church
Howard, PA 16841
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Me hang gliding with our instructor Mike
My wife Marty and Mike
Pastor Dan is bi-vocational. He works part time for radio station WRGN hosting a contemporary Christian music program called "Refresh and Renew".
It airs from 2pm to 5pm (ET) Mondays through Fridays and can be heard anywhere in the world where there's internet access.
Just go to www.wrgn.com and click "Listen online" or click the link here.
