I'd rather see a sermon than
    hear one any day;
I'd rather one should walk with me
    than merely show the way;
The eye's a better pupil and
    more willing than the ear;
Fine counsel is confusing, but
    examples always clear;
And the best of all the preachers
    are the men who live their creeds,
For to see the good in action is
    what everybody needs.
I can soon learn how to do it if
    you'll let me see it done.
I can watch your hands in action,
    but your tongue too fast may run.
And the lectures you deliver
    may be very wise and true,
But I'd rather get my lesson
    by observing what you do.
For I may misunderstand you and
    the high advice you give,
But there's no misunderstanding how
    you act and how you live.
                   Edgar Guest

This was my husband’s favorite poem, and the aim of his life was to be that sermon.