My wife was performing some genealogical research on the “Mary & John” boat which arrived in 1630 and 1634 at Dorchester Neck Massachusetts (present day Boston).

Depiction of the boat “Mary & John” as would have sailed to Massachusetts in 1630

Interior of the Mary & John

This was very early in American Colony founding, however many of these migrants to America had the desire for freedom, independence and the opportunity for a different way of living.

She stumbled upon a publication titled “The Second Boat” (the first was the Mayflower).  Within this publication was an interesting prayer which was written by a “Parson Elder”.

The full prayer was very long and was used to open a meeting during a recruiting party for soldiers for the American Army.  The ending was really interesting and is as follows:

“We beseech thee mercifully to give us victory, yet not ours but thy blessed will be done.  And, Oh Lord God of the Universe, if thou art unwilling by divine Grace to assist us, do stand aside and let us fight it out by ourselves. Amen.”

Ever wonder how the Lord answers all our prayers, this prayer recognized this fact.

Enjoy!