Happy St. Patrick’s Day! Have you ever heard an Irish blessing?
Here is one of my favorites. It describes a happy life for someone else, especially someone who is getting married, reached a milestone in life, or is going away.
May the road rise up to meet you.
May the wind always be at your back.
May the sun shine warm upon your face,
and rains fall soft upon your fields.
And until we meet again,
May God hold you in the palm of His hand.
Blessings are a type of prayer. It describes things you want for someone. When you start a sentence with the word “may,” it’s more than simply asking permission (like “Mother, may I?”). It’s a way to say “I hope this happens” or “Lord, please let this happen.”
Here’s another Irish blessing called “An Irish Prayer”:
May God give you…
For every storm, a rainbow,
For every tear, a smile,
For every care, a promise,
And a blessing in each trial.
For every problem life sends,
A faithful friend to share,
For every sigh, a sweet song,
And an answer for each prayer.
Did you know there are blessings in the Bible? Here’s one I heard in church a lot growing up. I still love it.
The Lord said to Moses, “Tell Aaron and his sons that when they bless the Israelites, this is what they should say:
‘May the Lord bless you
and keep you.
May the Lord smile down on you
and show you his kindness.
May the Lord answer your prayers
and give you peace.’In this way Aaron and his sons will use my name to give a blessing to the Israelites, and I will bless them.”
Numbers 6:22-27 (ERV)
How would you feel if someone prayed some of these things for you? Would it make you feel special? Loved? Cared for? Do you think someone else might need to feel those things too?
Try writing a blessing for someone you know. When you’ve finished your rough draft, you can copy it on a card or some nice paper and give it to them.
- Start with the word “May.” Think of it like “I pray that God will…”
- Now finish the sentence.
- Try to make your blessing at least four sentences.
- Write each sentence on a separate line.
- Don’t forget to share what you wrote in the comments below.
Here’s the one I wrote for you:
May you know God more each passing day.
May you find a way to serve the Lord.
May you always live your faith boldly.
May encouragers fill your life with joy.
Happy St. Patrick’s Day!