Heroes of the Faith

William How developed a special affection for common people. The son of a solicitor, he was born on this day in 1823 in northwestern England. As an Anglican minister, he became known as the “poor man’s bishop” because of his compassion for the needy and “the omnibus bishop” because he rode public transportation.

How also wrote hymns. He once said, “A good hymn should be like a good prayer – simple, real, earnest, and reverent.” He particularly tried to write hymns that would be meaningful to everyone, even people with little education. In 1864 he wrote a hymn called “For All the Saints,” desiring to honor people who had served the Lord faithfully.

They were strong because He was their Rock and Fortress. He was their Light, showing them the way. They had spread the Gospel and dedicated their lives to serving Him. How called believers to learn from these saints, to be soldiers for the king, “faithful, true and bold.” Believers are not to weaken in the face of adversity, but to carry on with courage, armed with strength by the Lord.

Their reward would be an eternity spent with their Savior in the “calm of paradise the blessed.” By faith How could see these faithful men and women marching “through gates of pearl streams … singing to Father, Son, and Holy Ghost.”

Join the heavenly throng today. Thank those saints who have gone before you. Seek to be a faithful servant.