For the Lord is good and his love endures forever; his faithfulness continues through all generations.  Psalm 100:5 NIV

 The age of steam was a great step forward for transport and trade. The first steamboat was invented in America by John Fitch in 1787, but perfected by Rober Fulton in 1807. Small and large steamboats took cargo and passengers down mighty rivers and across the Great Lakes in those early days, but not without risk. One day “The Swallow” was steaming its way across Lake Erie when great puffs of smoke belched from below. To his dismay the captain found that the steamboat was on fire. Still several miles from shore, the seamen tried desperately to extinguish the flames, but a cargo of tar made that insurmountable. Realising that nothing could save the boat the captain ordered all the passengers to the back, as the fire raged at the front. Only John Maynard remained at the wheel. He stood fast and faithful while the flames surrounded him. They singed his hair, seared his skin, charred his right arm and the smoke made it impossible for him to breath. Determined to bring the boat to land and save all the passengers he finally ran her aground. Everyone was soon safe, and John was helped off the vessel only to die upon the beach. He had given his life to rescue all aboard. In love, Jesus faced the flames of a death on a cross for us. Faithfully he saw his rescue mission through, once, for all time. His love and faithfulness brought freedom and pardon to all who believe. Don’t go down with the burning ship. Accept his valiant stand for us and be saved.

Story from The Building on the Rock Series – Book 2, #15 John’s sacrifice.  Steamboat info from, A history of steamboats. pdf.- www.sam.usace.army.mil