I most certainly believe that it is the gift of God that I am what I am. And so I dwell amongst barbarians, a proselyte and an exile, for the love of God.

In this quote, Saint Patrick expresses his deep belief that his identity and mission are a gift of God. He acknowledges that it is through divine will that he is who he is, and that his purpose is aligned with the love of God. Saint Patrick’s humility is evident in his recognition that his path, though difficult, is divinely ordained. He further reflects on the challenging nature of his journey, stating that he lives "amongst barbarians," signifying the people of Ireland whom he sought to convert to Christianity. This phrase underscores his sense of exile and separation from his homeland, both physically and spiritually.

The reference to being a "proselyte and an exile" emphasizes Saint Patrick’s missionary role, as he saw himself not only as a foreigner in Ireland but also as a convert to Christianity. As a former captive of the Irish who later returned as a missionary, Saint Patrick’s identity was tied to both his own spiritual journey and his calling to spread Christianity. He viewed his work as a divine service, despite the hardships of living in a foreign land, facing rejection, and dealing with the barbarism of the time.

Saint Patrick's statement also reflects a deep faith in God's purpose for his life, suggesting that even his exile and the challenges of his work were part of a greater divine plan. His mission was one of self-sacrifice for the love of God, not for personal gain. By describing himself as a proselyte and exile, Saint Patrick highlights his commitment to God’s calling, regardless of the personal costs involved. His words reveal a profound understanding of sacrifice and service, as he chose to dwell among those who were not his own people in order to share the message of Christianity.

Ultimately, this quote from Saint Patrick is a testament to his devotion and obedience to the will of God. It speaks to the core of his life’s work: he saw his identity and mission as a divine gift, and his time spent in Ireland, despite the hardships and alienation, was a labor of love for God. His experience illustrates the theme of sacrifice for a higher purpose and the commitment to spreading faith, even in challenging circumstances.