A Gift of Words

“Divorced, beheaded, died, divorced, beheaded”—these are the words describing the fate of each of Henry VIII’s wives…until July 1543 when Katherine Parr married King Henry of England as his sixth wife. “Published author” are words describing Katherine.

In her inner circle as queen, Katherine was a scholar and leader in England’s complicated, tumultuous, and violent Reformation Era. She spent much of her time learning about the Bible, eagerly studying under theologians of the day. This inspired her to write about what she was learning. She wanted to help others deepen their understanding of the good news of Jesus.

In 1544, Queen Katherine published her first book, “Psalms or Prayers.” She followed with “Prayers or Meditations” in 1545, becoming the first woman in England to publish her writings in print under her own name in English.

In 1547, after Henry VIII’s death, Katherine published “Lamentation of a Sinner.” In this book, she speaks to us through the centuries as a very real person, in all humility about sin—both in general and specifically about her own struggles. Even with her status as queen, she doesn’t shy away from lamenting and confessing her own deep sin. In doing so, she brings readers to the gospel—to how Jesus lived, sacrificed Himself, and rose again to be in relationship with us. Katherine wanted the common person of her time to be able to read these ideas in their own language and understand the concepts. It was a whole new paradigm.

While Katherine’s primary legacy for centuries has been as the survivor of King Henry VIII, this is to underestimate her. Even when she was married to one of the most infamous kings of England—and even when some corrupt leaders plotted against her life due to her beliefs—God preserved Katherine’s life and used her to spread the good news of Jesus’ life, death, and resurrection. • Lauren N. Simmons

• Katherine Parr was a gifted writer and student, and she lived in a difficult situation in a unique time in history. God was able to work through her challenging circumstances to bring about His good kingdom purposes. He was with her through it all. What are your gifts and talents? How might Jesus be calling you to serve His kingdom?

• If you’re not sure what it might look like for you to serve in Jesus’ kingdom, who are trusted Christians you can talk with about it—such as pastors, parents, counselors, or teachers?

Who knows, perhaps you have come to your royal position for such a time as this. Esther 4:14b (CSB)

Read Verses:

Luke 7:1-10; 10:38-42; 23:38-43; John 15:9-17