First Steps – February 22, 2021

In the royal political joust that took place after the death of Henry VIII, there were many causalities resulting in multiple martyrdoms. One such causality was Lady Jane Grey, the great-granddaughter of Henry VII. She was the de facto queen for nine days before being arrested and sent to the Tower of London. The night before she died, she sent her Greek New Testament to her sister and wrote this on the last page:

“I have sent you a book. It is not rimmed with gold, but its contents are worth more than precious stones. It contains the laws of the Lord. It is his last will and testament. It will lead you to the path of eternal joy…It will teach you to live and die…Apply yourself diligently to his book. Direct your life after it. Desire with David, good sister, to understand the law of the Lord God. Your youth does not guarantee you a long life. If God calls, the young go as quickly as the old. Learn to die. Deny the world, defy the devil, despise the flesh, and delight yourself only in the Lord. Be penitent for your sins, but don’t despair. Be steady in faith, but not presumptuous. Since you bear the name of a Christian, follow Christ’s steps as nearly as you can. Take up your cross. Lay your sins on his back. Embrace him always.”

Fine and courageous words at any time but knowing that they were written the night before an imminent execution, they are classic. What would you write if you were in her shoes? Many psychologists state that when one knows his/her death forthcoming they don’t waste time with idle words. They draw loved ones close and they speak from the heart.

I think her words are important still today. Allow God’s Word to fill your heart, direct your path, and bring you joy. Serve him with gladness, acknowledge God and he will direct your path.

“Don’t worry about anything; instead, pray about everything. Tell God what you need and thank him for all he has done.” – Philippians 4:6