Henry Barrow was a 17th century Puritan pastor imprisoned and eventually executed for his faith. After three years of imprisonment in despicable conditions, having not been outdoors in that time, Anglican officials visited him to convince him of his errors. Being unsuccessful he bishop quipped that Barrow should enjoy his opportunity for solitude. In response, this expressed how greatly he missed the fellowship of the saints, stating:
“So sweete is the harmonie of god’s grace unto me in the congregation, and the conversation of the saints at all times, as I think my self as a sparrow on the howse toppe when I am exiled thereby.”
What a joy to exercise the privilege of gathering with the saints in the morning.
(Drawn from Adam Nicolson, God’s Secretaries