Thursday 9th January 2025
Today we mark the Feast Day of Saint Adrian of Canterbury, a man who didn’t just step into God’s plans—he ran with them, leaving a lasting legacy on the Church in England. Originally from North Africa, Adrian was a scholar and teacher and is remembered for his leadership, faith, and incredible impact on education and theology in the UK. His life is a reminder that God uses our gifts wherever we are, for His glory.
Adrian was offered the high-ranking role of Archbishop of Canterbury in the 7th century, but in humility, he declined, recommending someone else instead. However, he didn’t retreat from his Kingdom purpose. Instead, he served as an abbot at St Augustine’s Abbey in Canterbury, raising up generations of leaders through teaching and discipleship. It’s said that people travelled far and wide to learn from him because, through Adrian, God’s wisdom shone brightly.
Pause for a moment: how often do you recognise the unique gifts God has given you? Like Saint Adrian, we may not all end up in positions of high authority, but that doesn’t mean our contributions are insignificant. Whether you’re pouring your heart into your family, your job, your church, or your community, you’re part of God’s plan to build His Kingdom.
In Colossians 3:23, we’re encouraged: “Whatever you do, work at it with all your heart, as working for the Lord, not for human masters.” Adrian didn’t serve for personal acclaim. He served God wholeheartedly, leaving behind a legacy that still inspires the Church today. What could happen if we resolved to live like that—wholeheartedly, humbly, and purposefully?
Reflection Verse
“Whatever you do, work at it with all your heart, as working for the Lord, not for human masters.” — Colossians 3:23
A Moment to Reflect
Think about your everyday tasks: your work, your school run, even your conversations with friends. How are you glorifying God in these moments? Take stock of the unique abilities and opportunities God has given you. Are there ways you can use them more intentionally today to serve Him?
Action Step
Make a list of three specific ways you can dedicate your work and gifts to God this week. Maybe you’ll encourage a colleague over coffee, bring patience into a stressful situation, or offer your skills in a new way at church.
Prayer
“Lord, thank You for Saint Adrian’s example of humble service and devotion. Help me to use my gifts as he did—with purpose, humility, and a heart committed to You. Guide me in living out my faith in my everyday actions, building Your Kingdom each day. May my life reflect Your glory in a way that impacts others for eternity. Amen.”
Let Saint Adrian inspire you as you step into God’s calling today. It’s not always about grand gestures; sometimes it’s simply doing what you’ve been called to do—faithfully and wholeheartedly.
