January 9, 1820 – We have been gratified today by the exhbition of some of the works of God in the mighty deep, particularly the appearance of several whales, the first we have seen, a shark, and a multitude of porpuses. But the manifestation of divine favor to sinners, the glory of God in the face of Jesus Christ is still more interesting. This is a favored Sabbath. The comfort and aid of the Spirit seem to have been enjoyed by the covenant people of God, in good measure. The broad and benevolent design of Christ’s kingdom: the certainty of its universal prevalence, and the duty of promoting its interests were set forth in a sermon from John 10, 16 by Brother Thurston. After a tossing boistrous week the Lord of the Sabbath speaks peace to the winds and waves and peace to our souls.
Lat. S. 40. Lon. W. 50 (Thaddeus Journal)
January 9, Sabbath. A calm pleasant day. Divine service on deck- subject chosen from John’s Gospel – 10 Chap., 16 V. A most excellent Missionary sermon by Brother Thurston. (Lucia Ruggles Holman)
Jan. 9. During the gale a great number of sea-fowls were constantly flying about the vessel: of these are several kinds; the most remarkable is the Albatross resembling a goose tho’ much larger: we see great numbers of them every day. I endeavored to catch one the other morning but he broke the line and went off with the hook in his mouth.
I tried a second time and drew one almost into the boat when he tore himself away and left us. broth. 0. has just shot one & the sea being calm we were able to get it. It measures 10 feet from tip to tip. I am now writing with one of its quils which is 18 inches in length. I intend to send one to A. if possible. We see whales every day. they are often close along side and afford, us much diversion with their jumping and spouting. A very large one was seen yesterday half as long as the Thaddeus his head was covered with shell fish. – (Samuel & Nancy Ruggles)
Jan. 9. After experiencing trials and dangers (the week past) we enjoy a pleasant Sabbath. Truly our covenant God is ever mindful of us. His omnipotent arm is outstretched for our deliverance and comfort. From day to day he preserves and sustains us; blesses us with health of body and peace of mind; while we enjoyed the dear delights of friendship, and feel all those tender ties of love and affection, which unite the hearts of brother and sisters. The Lord hath done great things for us, and blessed be his name. Having called us to separate from friends and home, He has comforted us with the promise “Lo I am with you.” Enjoying his presence we shall be happy, though separated from the dearest friend on earth. We are but pilgrims and strangers, who were traveling through this world. Ere long we shall reach that end of our journey and rest in peace. But we need strong faith and confidence in God to carry us in safety on our way, – and in able us to overcome and conquer all our spiritual foes. Trusting in the Lord we will cheerfully proceed, and if permitted, engage in the great work to which he has called us. And at last, may we be so happy as to hear the welcome sentence, “Well done good and faithful servants, enter ye into the joy of your lord.” (Mercy Partridge Whitney Journal)
9. – This has been a good Sabbath to me. Felt some enlargement in prayer at our social meeting this morning. Brother T. preached this evening from the words ‘others sheep have I’ etc. I hope here-after to live a more holy life. Ardent piety in a missionary is indispensable. Several large whales came along side to day. They are hideous looking creatures, some are said to be as long as our ship. (Samuel Whitney Journal)
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