Power in weakness
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It’s wonderful how the power of the Lord can give us confidence even when we’re in the middle of difficult circumstances. I wanted to give you one more little passage from the writings of (Saint) Patrick, and his confession is full of that theme. Dealing with dangers on the mission field, criticism from home, and perhaps an overly sensitive view of his own weakness, Patrick was amazingly confident in the power of the Triune God:
Yet I am aware, even in this present world, how I am lifted up beyond all measure. I myself was not worthy nor do I deserve that he should ever treat me in such a way. For I know full well that poverty and adversity would suit me better than riches and delights. Yet Christ the Lord was poor for our sake; and I myself am but a wretched failure, having nothing to my name, even had I wanted worldly goods.
Nor is this just my own opinion of myself; for as every day arrives, I expect either sudden death or deception or being taken back as a slave or some such other misfortune.
But I fear none of these, since I look to the promises of heaven and have flung myself into the hands of the all-powerful God, who rules as Lord everywhere. As the prophet says: ‘Throw your thought on God alone and he will fill your every need.’
Mark it now, I commend my soul to my God who is utterly faithful, for whom, in spite of my obscurity, I act as an ambassador.
Hannah’s been learning more about God, in spite of difficult circumstances. She and I both woke up sick today. She had a little fever (I’d rather not take my temperature, thanks – I don’t wanna know), but still was able to put the first sticker on her Bible Verse chart. We’ve started her learning verses in English and Spanish, with the promise that once she finishes the whole chart (I think it’s 14 verses in both languages) she can have an extra special outing. Here she is putting her first sticker up, as a reward for learning 1John 4:19. Do you know it? 🙂