Finding Meaning in the Myth

March 17th is just around the corner, and in honor of St. Patrick, the Patron Saint of Ireland, much of America will turn a lovely shade of green. But separating the myths from reality can be difficult. Who was St. Patrick, and what did he do that we should celebrate? Well, along with chasing Ireland’s snakes into the sea, St. Patrick is credited with bringing Christianity to Ireland, so the day should be about more than just shamrocks and leprechauns. With this is mind, here are some ways that we can honorably celebrate Ireland’s most recognized Christian missionary:

• Develop a love for the lost. God’s commandment bidding us to go out into the world is still as relevant today as it was in St. Patrick’s time. Developing a love for those in need of the Savior is one way that we can celebrate the commitment and devotion to our Lord that St. Patrick exhibited. 
• Take time to appreciate your own family’s ancestry, traditions, and customs. We have many great customs and traditions in my family, one of which is throwing a tamale-making party called a “tamalada.” During this time, family members form an assembly line, the end result of which is a feast of tamales, beans, and homemade salsa. While none of these things can be classified as Irish, they do inspire the same pride of ancestry that goes along with this holiday. What special traditions or customs can you celebrate with your family?
• Learn to appreciate the difference in others. I was at a theater once watching a movie about the crucifixion of Christ. A woman I had never met approached me and with tears in both of our eyes, we stood hugging and sobbing in the hall. Christ’s love binds all who believe in Him. Taking time to realize this and appreciate our difference can make us a stronger force for Him.