Memoir of Elder John Peak

Front matter

Qass- Book.

MEMOIR

OP

Preface

In attempting to write a sketch of the principal events of niy life and ministry, no attempt will be made at an affected style, to amuse the fancy . of the reader. Were the writer capable of eloquence of style, it would not accord with the object of giving a plain narrative of interesting facts.

To one who, through infirmities of age, has of necessity become less active, it affords a kind of melancholy pleasure, to call to mind seasons long since past ; especially such as were c<mnected with a chain of events exciting alarm and foreboding fears of some dire calamity, and yet terminating in a desirable and joyful manner. The forbearance and kindness of our heavenly Father, have been very great, which ought to be acknowledged with humble and devout gratitude ; calling to mind numerous instances of the interposition of divine goodness, manifest in the preservation of a poor sinful creature, excites in me at this moment the tender emotions of overflowing gratitude to our gracious Benefactor.

It appears to me a difficult task for an old man to write a faithful impartial history of his own life. It is truly deliglitful to speak of the riches of divine grace in which I have been led to hope, of 1* the consolations of Christ, the comforts of loVe, and fellowship of the Spirit. It is cheering to the believer, to contemplate the glories of the Son of God, his attributes, offices, Vvork of redemption, intercession, promises, &c. ; but I have nothing good to say of myself. If I proceed to mention some things which I have experienced of the good hand of God, upon mc, and his blessing granted to give my feeble ministry success, I wish no one to entertain the thought that it is my object to set forth myself as an example to others, for I wish no one to live such a life ; to say the least, in every thing I have come short, and in many things offended.

In attempting such a history, another difficulty presents itself. By the great fire at Newburyport, in 1811, my dwelling house was burnt, and therewith the best part of my manuscripts. This I have ever felt a great loss ; and now, if I proceed, I shall feel the want of those papers to assist my memory in reciting some interesting events, as weli as names, dates, numbers, &c. This circumstance will be admitted as an apology for any deficiencies as the necessary result. With these preliminaries, if life and health is continued, I think to proceed to write a brief sketch of my life, to which I am stimulated by the advice of friends, whose judgment and candour I am accustomed to hold in the highest estimation.

MEMOIR OF ELDER JOHN PEAK.