Among Nick’s things I found a collection of George Herbert’s poetry—a text from one of his Bible college courses (and presumably one taught by the book’s author, Jim Orrick). Herbert was a Puritan-era devotional poet who left behind some wonderful reflections on Christian living and doctrine. I especially appreciated this short one in which he displays skill through concision. Every word counts in “Trinity Sunday.”
Lord, who hast formed me out of mud,
And hast redeemed me through thy blood,
And sanctified me to do good;Purge all my sins done heretofore:
For I confess my heavy score,
And I will strive to sin no more.Enrich my heart, mouth, hands in me,
With faith, with hope, with charity;
That I may run, rise, rest with thee.
