Thoughts for the Day

Happy are those
who do not follow the advice of the wicked,
or take the path that sinners tread,
or sit in the seat of scoffers;
but their delight is in the law of the Lord,
and on his law they meditate day and night.
They are like trees
planted by streams of water,
which yield their fruit in its season,
and their leaves do not wither.
In all that they do, they prosper.

(Lectionary, New Revised Standard Version)

Thoughts

Today we remember George Herbert, priest, poet, and pastor. He was born in 1593 into an artistic and aristocratic family in Pembroke, UK, and went up to Cambridge in 1614, eventually becoming a fellow of Trinity College. At the age of 25 he became Public Orator in the University and after this a Member of Parliament. Then to everyone's surprise, he decided to become ordained and was made deacon in 1626. He married in 1629 and was priested in 1630 becoming the Vicar of Bemerton a parish near Salisbury where he lived for the rest of his short life.

Herbert wrote many hymns which we still know and love today, but it is his book 'The Country Parson" and his poetry, especially 'The Temple, that earned him a leading place in English Literature. He was also a much loved parish priest. However, he died only 3 years later, on this day in 1633.

Psalm 1 declares that those who delight in the Lord are like trees planted by the water which 'yield their fruit in due season'. George Herbert had a short life as a priest, but his 'fruit' has encouraged thousands of Christians over the centuries.

Heavenly Father,
we thank You for the life
and example of George Herbert,
for his faith and constancy,
and his love for his people and for You.
May we be encouraged
by his example
to use our gifts in Your service.
Amen.