Tuesday, November 3, 2009

Wise-Heart

The first of the Reformers profiled in Julia McNair Wright's collection of biographies for young people, recently republished by Master Poole Publishing as A Children's Lives of the Reformers, is George Wishart (c. 1513-1546).

She writes (p. 8) that he "has been remembered for his goodness...It is a very beautiful thing to be remembered for goodness. In those days he was called GEORGE WISE-HEART, and he had indeed a wise heart -- a heart that was wise to choose the love and service of God before anything else."

Although there is uncertainty about the origin of his surname, he was certainly called Wise-heart by contemporaries, and the name fits the man. John Knox referred to him as "that notable Instrument of God, Mr. George Wiseheart" (Historie of the Reformatioun Within the Realm of Scotland (1732), p. 65); George Buchanan called him "Doctor Sophocardius."

He lived and died boldly for Christ. Mrs. Wright takes us through the trials, adversities and adventures of a man who "dared to tell the truth" (p. 15). From how he dressed to what he preached, we learn of a man who dedicated his life to living for God no matter what the cost.

The lesson she imparts to readers young and old (p. 41) is that:

From George Wishart we can learn to fear nothing but sin, to return good for evil, and to be faithful to truth even unto death, when we shall have crown of everlasting life.

2 comments:

  1. Thanks Andrew. That sounds like an interesting book. When you say for young people, what age range is it aimed at? I have two boys (10/12) who are not readers but I try to read as much as possible to them.

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  2. Ruby, This set of biographies was written in the 1870's so the target audience was probably younger then than it would be if it was written today. But I think it is designed generally for ages 7-13. Some words may require parental explanation, but it will depend largely on the child. I think your boys would likely appreciate this book. Blessings, sister!

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