A Good Reminder

Dear Family,

Joseph is going to be doing a research paper on the life of Eric Liddell.
This past week I read some of his biography, and then some of a book
written by him while he was in the interment camp in China where he died.
I want to read more of this small book titled The Disciplines of the
Christian Life.  I was impressed by the quiet but very powerful testimony
of Eric Liddell's life. The following poem was not written by Eric Liddell,
but when I read it this week, I felt it was a good description of his life.
I believe that a quiet life of meekness and faithfulness preaches more
than all the words we say.

Sermons We See
Edgar Guest

I'd rather see a sermon than hear one any day;
I'd rather one should walk with me than merely tell the way.
The eye's a better pupil and more willing than the ear,
Fine counsel is confusing, but example's always clear;
And the best of all the preachers are the men who live their creeds,
For to see good put in action is what everybody needs.

I soon can learn to do it if you'll let me see it done;
I can watch your hands in action, but your tongue too fast may run.
And the lecture you deliver may be very wise and true,
But I'd rather get my lessons by observing what you do;
For I might misunderstand you and the high advise you give,
But there's no misunderstanding how you act and how you live.

When I see a deed of kindness, I am eager to be kind.
When a weaker brother stumbles and a strong man stays behind
Just to see if he can help him, then the wish grows strong in me
To become as big and thoughtful as I know that friend to be.
And all travelers can witness that the best of guides today
Is not the one who tells them, but the one who shows the way.

One good man teaches many, men believe what they behold;
One deed of kindness noticed is worth forty that are told.
Who stands with men of honor learns to hold his honor dear,
For right living speaks a language which to every one is clear.
Though an able speaker charms me with his eloquence, I say,
I'd rather see a sermon than to hear one, any day