Herr Jesu

Last week I introduced you to Hugo Grotius as well as Charles Butler's book devoted to a biographical account of the former's life.  In his account, Butler records the events leading up to Grotius' death.  As Grotius realized that the grip of death grew tighter around him, he requested the presence of a Christian minister.  John Quistorpius, a Lutheran minister and Professor of Divinity, responded to his request.  Quistorpius talked with the self-doubting Grotius and encouraged him to talk to the Savior.  According to the record, Grotius welcomed such an opportunity and proceeded by praying a well-known prayer of the German tongue.

Herr Jesu, dir leb'ich.  Herr Jesu, dir sterb' ich.
Herr Jesu, dein bin ich, tot und lebendig.

Thanks to my father and a high school class I eventually dropped, I can count from eins to zehn.  However, I could not recognize any word save "Jesu."  When in doubt, turn to Google!

My search proved productive and I share the results with you by translating the Herr Jesu prayer.

Lord Jesus, I live for you.
Lord Jesus, I die for you.
Lord Jesus, I am yours, in death and in life.

What a worthy prayer!  I am hard-pressed to think of a more aptly-stated confession for the one who seeks to live the Ordinary life to the glory of God.

Tomorrow is Ash Wednesday.  That annual event marks the beginning of Lent, a meaningful period of 40 days (not counting Sundays) leading to the celebration of the Lord's resurrection.  I have decided to pray the Herr Jesu each day of Lent.  I pray that my thoughts, words, and actions will match my prayer.  Will you join me?

Herr Jesu . . .

For further reading:
Butler, Charles. The Life of Hugo Grotius. London: John Murray, 1876.
Prayer quoted from page 206.