'Does he preach the Gospel?'

General Stonewall Jackson in a letter to the Southern Presbyterian General Assembly near the beginning of the War:

"A bad selection of a chaplain may prove a curse instead of a blessing. If the few prominent ministers thus connected with each army would cordially co-operate, I believe that glorious fruits would be the result. Denominational distinctions should be kept out of view, and not touched upon. And, as a general rule, I do not think that a chaplain who would preach denominational sermons should be in the army. His congregation is his regiment, and it is composed of various denominations. I would like to see no question asked in the army of what denomination a chaplain belongs to; but let the question be, Does he preach the Gospel?"

From Christ in the Camp by J. William Jones,D.D.

Prompt Obedience

Here is another excellent story and quote from the life of Gen. Stonewall Jackson and Gen. Lee. This story is told by Rev. Dr. James P. Smith. The account is from Life and Letters of General Lee by John William Jones.

"Rev. Dr. James P. Smith, editor of the Central Presbyterian, Richmond, Virginia, who served gallantly on Stonewall Jackson's staff, relates the following incident illustrating Jackson's habit of prompt obedience to the smallest request of his chief.

One day when he was at Lee's headquarters the General told Captain Smith to say to General Jackson that the first time he rode in that direction he would be glad to see him on a matter of no great importance, which could await his convenience.

When the message was delivered Jackson promptly said, "I will go tomorrow morning at 6 o'clock, Captain Smith, and I wish you to accompany me." At 5 o'clock the next morning Captain Smith looked out of his tent, and finding a driving snow storm raging, took for granted that his chief would not go to General Lee's headquarters in such weather, as Lee had sent him word that it was a matter of no great importance and could await his convenience. Accordingly he went to sleep again, and was greatly enjoying his morning nap when his servant rudely awakened him by saying, " Captain Smith, de General done got he breakfast, and is gettin' ready to start."

The gallant Captain hustled out of bed, dressed while his boy was saddling his horse, and, without his breakfast, galloped after his General, whom he found it difficult to overtake, or to keep up with, as he faced the storm and rode eight miles to General Lee's quarters.

The Chief had just come out from his breakfast, and greeted his great lieutenant with the question, "Why, General, what stirred you out at this hour, and in this fearful weather? Are those people across the river moving?"

"No, not that I am aware of," replied Jackson, "but you said that you wished to see me."

"But I told Captain Smith to tell you that it was a matter of no great importance, and could await your convenience. I had no idea of bringing you out such weather as this."

Jackson promptly replied in those emphatic, crisp words so characteristic of the man, "General Lee's lightest wish is a supreme command to me, and I always take pleasure in prompt obedience." "

Day 2: Lexington, VA "Do it Well"

On our second day, we were in Lexington most of the day. We started out at Washington and Lee University, where Gen. Robert E. Lee became President after the War. I had never seen the Presidents Mansion, which Lee himself designed and lived in until his death. I don't believe you can tour this one, I think it is still the residence of the University President. After we saw Lee's House, we walked toward Lee's Chapel, took some pictures and then walked down the street to VMI or Virginia Military Institute. Both campuses are right next to each other. We walked around the parade grounds and then into the VMI Chapel. In the basement of the Chapel is the new gift shop and museum. There you can see things like Stonewall Jacksons VMI uniform he wore at the first battle of Manassas, His horse 'Little Sorrel' who is mounted, and saddle, and also the raincoat Jackson was wearing when shot by his own men at Chancellorsville. There are also some very interesting exhibits from the history of VMI. The gift shop was probably the best one we encountered on the entire trip. At noon, everyday, there is a cadet guided tour of VMI that meets in the gift shop. This is one thing I have never done at VMI and I have always wanted my father to go on, so we did that. We were taken around by Cadet McFather, who was sharply dressed wearing his dress white uniform. One of the most impressive scenes of the whole trip happened on this tour. While walking outside the Chapel, an older gentleman walked by in a shirt and shorts, and as Cadet McFather was talking to us, he stopped and said "How are you today Sir?" in which the older gentleman replied, "Well, how are you?" Cadet McFather then replied, "Doing my job, Sir." and then the other gentleman said, "Do it well." Cadet McFather said, "Yes sir." This man must have been a superior and at least professor, but the whole scene was very impressive. I can only say, if you have a son, especially in his teenage years, visiting and touring VMI should leave a mark. The organization and discipline of the young men and women there is outstanding. We also learned of their 'Honor Code' and unlike West Point Academy, who gives three strikes, VMI only gives one. In the first picture below, is inside the VMI Chapel. The flags hanging from the ceiling are those states that composed of the Union when VMI was founded. The Painting on the wall is of the Battle of New Market, where VMI cadets were marched and called to battle, charging an artillery battery and helped to win the battle.

From there we walked back to Lee's Chapel, which Gen. Lee had built at Washington and Lee University while President. Inside is a life size sculpture of Gen. Lee resting on his camp cot. It is a beautiful marble statue, which I wish you could take pictures of, but none are allowed. Underneath this statue, downstairs is the Lee family crypt. Gen. Lee, his wife and sons and daughters, and also his father, Revolutionary War hero, Gen. 'Lighthorse' Harry Lee are all buried there. Lee's office is also intact the way he left it, and Traveller is buried right outside the back door.

After touring VMI and Washington and Lee University, we took a tour of Stonewall Jackson's house in town. Again, no photography is allowed inside. I have toured this house before, and I have to say the tour this time was a little disappointing. We were told during the tour, that we don't really know what Gen. Jackson believed about slavery, and also that we didn't know exactly why he fought in the War, other than he was a member of the Virginia State Militia. I had to bite my tongue, because if you have ever read R.L. Dabney's book or his Life and Letters, by his wife, Mary Anna, I believe that we do know what he thought and why he fought. Anyway, the other thing I noticed, and it wasn't just here, but they would say things like Jackson had a 'strong belief in his faith', which may be nothing, but I wish they would say 'his faith in God and the Lord Jesus Christ.' These men's faith was not in their faith, it was in Almighty God and they found their rest in His Son, Jesus Christ. I just find it heartbreaking, and I believe a dishonor to these men and to God, to not tell the whole truth. Maybe it is the 'politically correct' thing to say, but I don't agree. But I would recommend the tour, it is the only one in Lexington that we took that you had to actually pay to tour, but just to see the house where Jackson and his wife lived is worth it.

Getting ready to return to Virginia that "Mother of States"

R.L. Dabney writes in The Life and Campaigns of Lt. Gen. T. J. (Stonewall) Jackson, about the series of events that led to secession in Virginia, one of the last straws being Lincoln's resupplying Ft. Sumter, which is an act of war, and then declaring war without the proper Constitutional authority. Virginia could no longer stay in a union that would tear the binding compact in two, and then try to coerce a sovereign state back into a voluntary union. I thought Dabney's words on these events were very moving and inspiring, I wish we had MEN enough to stand up today for what is just and right! R. L. Dabney writes:

"But they did not stop here: on April 14th, Lincoln made a proclamation, without the authority of a shadow of law from Congress, declaring war against South Carolina and the Confederate Government, and calling upon the States for seventy-five thousand soldiers to invade them. The Governors of all the Southern States, except Maryland, refused compliance. In Virginia all remains of hesitation were instantly extinguished; the Convention, which was in session, on the 17th of April, passed an ordinance resuming the seperate independence of the State; and the Governor immediately began to prepare for war."

..."They said, the old "Mother of States and statesmen" was decrepit, that her genius was turned to dotage, that her breasts were dry of that milk which suckled her Henrys and Washingtons. They thought her little more than a cowering beldame, whom a timely threat would reduce to utter submissiveness. And thus they dared to stretch over her head the minatory rod. But when the tyrant tried the perilous experiment, he was startled by a result as unexpected as that which followed the touch of Ithuriel's spear. She, whom he thought a patient, hesitating, helpless paralytic, flamed up at the insolent touch, like a pyramid of fire, and Virginia stood forth again in her immortal youth, the unterrified Commonwealth of 1776, a Minerva radiant with the terrible glories of policy and war, wielding that sword which ever flashed before the eyes of her aggressors, the "Sic semper Tyrannis."

The Creature of the Sovereign States

I am continually amazed while reading books written by those people who were actually there during the events in our nations history, how they describe the beauty of the way our government is suppose to function. How completely misled and mis-taught we have been in our own country about our own history is heart-breaking. This quote is a little lengthy, but I believe very important and relevant today, seeing that the Founders were trying to avoid the type of authoritarian government we now have and how our own government breaks its own rule of law everyday. I also believe more and more that it is our duty, especially if we are believers in Christ, to understand how our governments are supposed to function. I would try to sum up this quote, but it is so simple and straight to the point that I thought it speaks for itself. R.L. Dabney, while writing about Gen. Stonewall Jackson and his political views as a 'States Rights Democrat' says this:

"This name did not denote the attachment of those who bore it to the dogmas of universal suffrage and radical democracy, as concerned the State Governments; but their advocacy of republican rights for these Governments, and a limited construction of the powers conferred by them on the Federal Government. Their view of those powers was founded on the following historical facts, which no well-informed American hazards his credit of disputing: - That the former colonies of Great Britain emerged from the Revolutionary War distinct and sovereign political communities or commonwealths, in a word, separate nations, though allied together, and as such were recognized by all the European powers: That, after some years' existence as such, they voluntarily formed a covenant, called the Constitution of the United States, which created a species of government resting upon this compact for its existence and rights; a government which was the creature of the sovereign States, acting as independent nations in forming it: That this compact conferred certain defined powers and duties upon the Central Government, for purposes common to all the States alike, and expressly reserved and prohibited the exercise of all other powers, leaving to the States the management of their own affairs. They, therefore, did not sacrifice their nature as sovereignties, by acceding to the Federal Union; but, by compact, they conceded some of the functions of an independent nation, particularly defined, to the Central Government, retaining all the rest as before. These facts and this inference were uniformly held by the Commonwealth of Virginia at all times, being solemnly asserted when she joined the copartnership, and frequently reaffirmed by her Government down to the present day. They were, in substance, embodied in the Constitution of the United States itself, by a formal amendment, immediately after it went into effect. Since the era of the elder Adams, when the centralizing doctrine was utterly overwhelmed by the election of Mr. Jefferson, they have been professed in theory, though often violated in act, by every Administration of whatever party it might be, and by nearly every State."

"The party of the States'-Rights usually taught, from these principles, that the Federal Government ought to continue what it was in the purer days of Washington and Jefferson, unambitious in its claims of jurisdiction, simple and modest in its bearing, restricted in its wealth and patronage, and economical of expenditures, save in the common defense against external enemies. They held that all acts of legislation which interfered with those functions appropriate to the States as Commonwealths, and all those acts which turned aside from the general interests common to the States alike, to promote particular or local interests, were partial, usurping, and in virtual violation of the spirit of the Constitution. Among these, they classed all bounty laws designed to favor the inhabitants of a section, all protective tariffs, the chartering of a vast Banking Corporation in one of the States, and all meddling with the institution of domestic slavery in the States. They also held that the very Government, being the creation of commonwealths which acted as independent nations in forming it, and originating in a covenant which they voluntarily formed as such, derived its whole authority from its conformity to the terms of that covenant: that, if the covenant were destroyed, the Government was destroyed, and its rightful title of allegiance from any person was annihilated- that being gone which was the sole basis of it; and that, in the dernier ressort upon any vital instance of usurpation, the States themselves must be the judges whether the covenant was destroyed, and judges too of the necessity and nature of their redress. This right, to be exercised, indeed, under those moral obligations which should govern all international intercourse, they held to be inherent in the States as originally sovereign; while to suppose their federal compact divested them of it was preposterous, and what was, in the nature of the case, impossible. It would represent their voluntary act in acceding to the covenant as a political suicide. And it would have been equally preposterous for the Federal Constitution formally to confer it; it would have been the absurdity of the offspring's attempting to confer on its own parent the rights of paternity. Hence the absolute silence of the Federal Constitution concerning this inalienable right of the States was logically consistent, and is as incapable of implying anything against, as for, its just exercise." -R.L. Dabney

Quote is from Life and Campaigns of Lt. Gen. Thomas (Stonewall) Jackson by R. L. Dabney

The superintendence of God

I came across this passage as I have been re-reading The Life and Campaigns of Lieut.-General Jackson. I thought it was very helpful and worth sharing. R.L. Dabney, speaking of Jackson writes:

"There was another trait of his religious character so conspicuous, that it demands here full illustration,- his constant recognition of a particular Providence. No man ever lived who seemed to have a more practical and living sense of this truth of Christianity. He earned, indeed, thereby, the title of superstitious, from some of the unthinking, and of fatalist from others. But he was neither: his belief in the control of Divine Providence was most rational and scriptural. The only difference between him and other enlightened Christians here was, that his faith was "the substance of things anticipated, and the evidence of things not seen;" while theirs is, so largely, an impractical theory...

His belief in the superintendence of God was equal to his industry. In every blessing or calamity of private life, as well as in every order or despatch announcing a victory, he was prompt to ascribe the result to the Lord of Hosts; and these brief devout ascriptions were with him no unmeaning formalities. In the very flush of triumph he has been known to seize the juncture for the earnest inculcation of this truth upon the minds of his subordinates; and, in the anxieties of great and critical moments, his soul drew composure and assurance from it. Especially did he love to recognize the hand of God in the results of strategy and battles. While the most pains-taking of commanders, he well knew that in these great operations many things must be done beyond the oversight of the commander, each of which by the manner of its performance may absolutely determine the event. Hence when the issue was according to his prayers, he recognized the presence of an Eye more comprehensive than that of any creature, and ascribed all wisdom, power, and glory to it."

Looking to the brightness ahead

As my wife and I are contemplating a short little excursion to that most beautiful place, indeed the most beautiful land I know of, the Shenandoah Valley in Virginia, I am re-reading Life and Campaigns of Lt. General T.J. Stonewall Jackson. I have wanted so much to write often of how much I have learned about the true Southern Confederacy and the goodness, justice and integrity of many of its people and leaders and the manliness of its men. It seems even now, this day there is constantly some false thing said about the South and its Cause, mainly from people, I would dare to say, have not read hardly a single thing, South or North, for that matter, from someone who actually was there during that most critical time. One thing that has been a constant in whoever I have read from that time, is that they believed that one day the truth would once again prevail, and that their actions would be vindicated when the truth was taught. Unfortunately that truth is still hidden even from people who would see it. Yet, I can say that for me the 'beacons have been lit'. Yet as I say that, as much as I have seen and learned from the honesty of those Southerners of how our constituted government is supposed to function, the truth about slavery, the truth about Lincoln, yet the most amazing thing is how gracious the Lord's presence was to those people. The Lord God Almighty moved amongst those people, and how they speak of Christ is more impressive than any other thing that can be learned. Here is a short piece of a letter Jackson wrote to his wife on May 11th, 1859.

Jackson writes, "Try to look up and be cheerful, and not desponding. Trust our kind heavenly Father, and by the eye of faith see that all things with you are right, and for your best interest... The clouds come, pass over us, and are followed by bright sunshine; so, in God's moral dealings with us, He permits us to have trouble awhile, but let us, even in the most trying dispensations of His providence, be cheered by the brightness which is a little ahead. Try to live near to Jesus, and secure that peace which flows like a river."

Should I not consider it a blessing?

This is a re-post of an old post. With the date of Gen. Jackson's death having just past, May 10th, 1863, I thought about this story once again and thought I would re-post it. :

I have been thinking about what Gen. Thomas 'Stonewall' Jackson said after he was wounded by his own men during the victorious battle of Chancellorsville. Gen. Jackson had just led one of the most daring flanking maneuvers of any army up until that time and trying to follow up the day's victory he pressed for a night attack. Venturing beyond his own lines he and his staff were mistaken for the enemy and Jackson was shot, I believe, twice. One of Jackson's arms had to be amputated below the shoulder and this is where I will pick up the story. R.L. Dabney in the Life and Campaigns of Lt. General T.J. (Stonewall Jackson) says this:

"His first act, after receiving refreshments, was to request Lieut. Morrison to go to Richmond, and bring Mrs. Jackson to his bedside. He then admitted his chaplain, Rev. Mr. Lacy, who had just arrived, and learned his misfortune, to his tent. As he entered, and saw the stump where the left arm had lately been, he exclaimed in distress, "Oh, General! what a calamity!" Jackson first thanked him, with his usual courtesy, for his sympathy, and then proceeded, with marked deliberation and emphasis, as though delivering his Christian testimony touching God's dealing with him, to speak in substance thus; and at a length which was unusual with his taciturn habits. "You see me severely wounded, but not depressed; not unhappy. I believe that it has been done according to God's holy will, and I acquiesce entirely in it. You may think it strange; but you never saw me more perfectly contented than I am to-day; for I am sure that my Heavenly Father designs this affliction for my good. I am perfectly satisfied, that either in this life, or in that which is to come, I shall discover that what is now regarded as a calamity, is a blessing. And if it appears a great calamity, (as it surely will be a great inconvenience, to be deprived of my arm,) it will result in a great blessing. I can wait, until God, in his own time, shall make known to me the object he has in thus afflicting me. But why should I not rather rejoice in it as a blessing, and not look on it as a calamity at all? If it were in my power to replace my arm, I would not dare to do it, unless I could know it was the will of my Heavenly Father."

Oh that we could look upon our own trials with this peace and confidence in the wisdom of God. Do we not think of so many things that are hindrances in our own minds? Yet, if we are thinking rightly about Christ and resting in Him, those same burdens could truly be blessings. For in Christ we have a joy set before us, and a joy we can experience now.

Just a little more Stonewall Jackson

Alright, I have finally finished reading my second book on Stonewall Jackson. I highly recommend The Life and Letters of Stonewall Jackson. I just wanted to give a few more quotes, hopefully short but sweet. There is just so much to learn about this great man, how fiery he was in battle, yet how reserved and humble he was at all times always thinking of what he could do for others. Like many other believers in the past the most profound thing about Thomas Jackson was his love for Christ. It was above all other things and that love moved him in every area of his life. It is just so sad that the history that is told largely today is void of this most important trait of Jackson, his christian character. Well, I will not ramble more, here are some more quotes:

After a hard fought victory Mrs. Jackson writes, "The medical director, Doctor McGuire, in speaking of the terrible conflict, said: "General, this day has been won by nothing but stark and stern fighting." "No," replied Jackson, "it has been won by nothing but the blessing and protection of Providence."

In a letter to his friend Gen. Jackson writes, "I greatly desire to see peace- blessed peace. And I am persuaded that if God's people throughout the Confederacy will earnestly and perseveringly unite in imploring His interposition for peace, we may expect it. Let our government acknowledge the God of the Bible as its God, and we may expect soon to be a happy and independent people......Let the framework of our government show that we are not ungrateful to Him."

In a letter to his wife Jackson writes, "Don't trouble yourself about representations that are made of your husband. These things are earthly and transitory. There are real and glorious blessings, I trust, in reserve for us beyond this life. It is best for us to keep our eyes fixed upon the throne of God and the realities of a more glorious existence beyond the verge of time. It is gratifying to be beloved and to have our conduct approved by our fellow-men, but this is not worthy to be compared with the glory that is in reservation for us in the presence of our glorified Redeemer. Let us endeavor to adorn the doctrine of Christ our Saviour in all things, knowing that there awaits us a far more exceeding and eternal weight of glory.' I would not relinquish the slightest diminution of that glory for all this world can give. My prayer is that such may ever be the feeling of my heart."

A people whose God is the Lord

O how wonderful it would be if we had leaders who would acknowledge the authority of the Lord. Here is a small quote from 'Stonewall' Jackson after his troops had been victorious after the battle at McDowell's Station in Virginia. This quote is taken from Life and Letters of Stonewall Jackson written by Mary Anna Jackson. Jackson writes:

"Soldiers of the Army of the Valley and Northwest:

I congratulate you on your recent victory at McDowell. I request you to unite with me this morning in thanksgiving to Almighty God for thus having crowned your arms with success, and in praying that He will continue to lead you on from victory to victory, until our independence shall be established, and make us that people whose God is the Lord. The chaplains will hold divine service at ten o'clock A.M. this day in their respective regiments."

Mrs. Jackson's arrival at Winchester

As you are probably aware I have been reading The Life and Letters of Stonewall Jackson by Mary Anna Jackson. I have posted several quotes from Stonewall Jackson but none from Mrs. Jackson. Like Mrs. Davis, Mrs. Jackson is a wonderful writer herself. The stories both of these ladies write are very descriptive and usually give you the feeling like you are there. I read this portion of text today while on my lunch break and I thought it was such a charming story, I had to post it. I believe this story took place in the winter of 1861. Mrs. Jackson was able to travel to Winchester where her husband was stationed to see him after the war started. It was an awkward time to travel alone as a lady, with so much in confusion in the country. Here is were her story picks up. Mrs. Jackson writes:

"It can readily be imagined with what delight General Jackson's domestic plans for the winter were hailed by me, and without waiting for the promised "aide" to be sent on as my escort, I joined some friends who were going to Richmond, where I spent a few days to shop, procure a passport, and to wait an escort to Winchester. The latter was soon found in a kind-hearted but absent-minded old clergyman, who occupied himself so assiduously in taking care of the little woman he had in charge that he entirely forgot to look after her baggage (a very necessary precaution in the upturned and disjointed condition in which the country then was), and the result was a lost trunk! We travelled by stage-coach from Strasburg, and were told, before reaching Winchester, that General Jackson was not there, having gone with his command on an expedition to demolish Dam No. 5 on the Chesapeake and Ohio Canal. It was therefore with a feeling of sad disappointment and loneliness that I alighted from the stage-coach in front of Taylor's Hotel at midnight in the early part of dreary, cold December, and no husband to meet me with a glad welcome. By the dim lamp-light I noticed a small group of soldiers standing on the sidewalk, but they remained as silent spectators, and my escort led me up the long stairway, doubtless feeling disappointed himself that he still had me on his hands. Just before reaching the landing I turned to look back, for one figure among that group looked startlingly familiar, but as he had not come forward, I felt that I must be mistaken. However, my backward glance did reveal an officer muffled up in a military overcoat, and cap drawn down over his eyes, following us in rapid pursuit, and by the time we were upon the top step a pair of strong arms caught me in the rear; the captive's head was thrown back, and she was kissed again and again by her husband, before she could realize the delightful surprise he had given her. The good old minister chuckled gleefully, and was no doubt a sincere sharer in the joy and relief experienced by his charge. When I asked my husband why he did not come forward when I got out of the coach, he said he wanted to assure himself that it was his own wife, as he didn't want to commit the blunder of kissing anybody else's esposa. He had returned but a few hours before to spend the Sabbath in Winchester, and with the hope of my arrival upon the midnight stage."

Some more quotes from Jackson

Here are just a few quotes from Thomas J. Jackson taken from Life and Letters of "Stonewall" Jackson by his wife Mary Anna Jackson. They shed some light on his character. This first quote is from a letter to his wife which he wrote while he was organizing troops at Harper's Ferry. This little quote shows how charitable he was. Jackson writes:

"I am very thankful to an ever-kind Providence for enabling you so satisfactorily to arrange our home matters. I just love my business little woman. Let Mr. Tebbs have the horse and rockaway at his own price; and if he is not able to pay for them, you may give them to him, as he is a minister of the Gospel...."

This next quote is also from a letter written to his wife while encamped at Winchester in July of 1861. Again Jackson writes:

"God will, I am well satisfied, in His own good time and way, give us the victory.... In reply to your queries, I am sleeping on the floor of a good room, but I have been sleeping out in camp several weeks, and generally found that it agreed with me well, except when it rained, and even then it was but slightly objectionable. I find that sleeping in the open air, with no covering but my blankets and the blue sky for a canopy, is more refreshing than sleeping in a room."

Mrs. Jackson quoted a notebook entry of her husband he had written after the death of his first wife Ellie. He wrote:

"Objects to be effected by Ellie's death: To eradicate ambition; to eradicate resentment; to produce humility. If you desire to be more heavenly-minded, think more of the things of heaven, and less of the things of earth."

Stonewall Jackson

Alright, its been a little while, for different reasons I haven't posted in a while. Last time I made it to the computer, I spent most of the time ordering some more books thanks to my tax refund! Right now I am about half way through the Life and Letters of Stonewall Jackson by his wife Mary Anna Jackson. I have to say that Jackson was a very interesting man. Darren, my roommate, and I talk about some of the similarities of his personality to that of Jackson. We joked this weekend though when I read that he enjoyed gardening and his desire to always be punctual and on those points they at least have differed! Reading Mrs. Jackson's description of Lexington, VA has really made me want to visit there again. For those that love the movie "Gods and Generals" they show at least one scene in the Jackson home. One thing interesting having visited the real home, is that it looks very different (on the inside) from the house they used in the movie. I believe that it is owned privately and they will not let you take pictures in the house and they would not let the filmmakers use it for the movie either. Anyways, here is just a little piece of a letter that Major Jackson wrote to his wife in the summer of 1859. This has to do with a sermon he was able to hear. Jackson writes:

"August 15th. Last night I enjoyed what I have long desired-listening to a sermon from the Rev. Dr. Thornwell, of South Carolina....After concluding his introductory remarks, he took his text from Genesis, seventeenth chapter, seventh verse, which he presented in a bold, profound, and to me original manner. I felt what a privilege it was to listen to such an exposition of God's truth. He showed that in Adam's fall we had been raised from the position of servants to that of children of God. He gave a brief account of his own difficulties when a college student, in comprehending his relation to God. He represented man as a redeemed being at the day of judgment, standing nearest to the throne, the angels being farther removed. And why? Because his Brother is sitting upon the throne he is a nearer relation to Christ than the angels. And his righteousness is superior to that of the angels-his being the righteousness of God himself. I don't recollect having ever before felt such love to God. I was rather surprised at seeing so much grace and gesture in Dr. Thornwell. I hope and pray that much good will result from this great exposition of Bible truth....."

The Warrior

"The LORD is a warrior; The LORD is His name." Exodus 15:3

While reading about Stonewall Jackson, I came across a few lines that made me think of this verse. Not to compare Gen. Jackson to the Lord, but I think the descriptions of his victories helps illustrate this scripture. Moses said this about God after He had brought the people out of Egypt and delivered them from the hand of Pharaoh. The mere name of the Lord would invoke fear from all around after hearing what He had done for the Israelites. After the Valley Campaign in 1862 R.L. Dabney says this about Gen. Jackson.:

"But enough was accomplished to cover General Jackson with a blaze of glory. Fifteen days before, he was a hundred miles from his base, with a little army of fifteen thousand men, while forty thousand enemies were on his immediate front and flanks. Now, he was disembarrassed of them all, with a loss of not more than one thousand five hundred men; while two armies, whose aggregate was double his own, were flying from him, quivering with disaster, leaving his victorious hands full of trophies. From this hour, doubt and detraction were silenced; he stood forth acknowledged by all as a General of transcendent abilities. His mere name, henceforth, brought assurance of triumph to his friends, and panic to his enemies. Within forty days he had marched four hundred miles, fought four pitched battles, - defeating four separate armies,- with numerous combats and skirmishes, sent to the rear three thousand five hundred prisoners, killed and wounded a still larger number of the enemy, and defeated or neutralized forces three times as numerous as his own, upon his proper theatre of war, besides the corps of McDowell, which was rendered inactive at Fredericksburg by the fear of his prowess."

Again, after a brilliant plan and march conceived by General Lee and Jackson, General Jackson marched his force to Richmond to help defeat Gen. McClellan's army. Dabney again says:

"But the arrival of General Jackson brought a strength to the Confederates beyond that of his numbers. His fame as a warrior had just risen to the zenith; while all the other armies of the Confederacy had been retreating before the enemy, or at best holding the defensive with difficulty, his alone had marched, and attacked, and conquered. A disaster had never alighted on his banners. His assault was regarded by friends and foes as the stroke of doom, and his presence gave assurance of victory. Hence, when the army before Richmond learned that he was with them, they were filled with unbounded joy and confidence, while their enemies were struck with a corresponding panic."

Yet, with these victories and the fame that it brought him, here his true Christian character showed brightly. Later in the war he had a conversation with another officer on a rainy night which Dabney describes here:

" The conversation was soon insensibly turned on the things of Redemption. His friend related how Dr. S.,- the eminent minister mentioned in the last letter,-had been understood by him to declare, that the fear of wrath did not enter at all as an element of that godly sorrow of sin, which marks true repentance; but that it was prompted solely by love and gratitude. The General answered, that the doctrine intended by Dr. S. had probably been misapprehended by him. For his part, he supposed that, in the new-born believer, both fear and love actuated his repentance. But as his assurance became more clear of the Redeemer's mercy to his soul, his obedience became less servile, and more affectionate; until, in the most favored saints, perfect love cast out fear. He then declared that he had been, himself, for a long time, a stranger to fear of wrath; because he knew and was assured of the love of Christ to his soul; that he felt not the faintest dread that he should ever fall under the wrath of God, although a great sinner; because he knew that it was forever reconciled by the righteousness of Christ, and that love for God and Christ was now the practical spring of all his penitence. Speaking thus, Jackson arose from his seat, and, with an impressive union of humility and solemn elation, continued in substance thus: "Nothing earthly can mar my happiness. I know that heaven is in store for me; and I should rejoice in the prospect of going there to-morrow. Understand me: I am not sick; I am not sad; God has greatly blessed me; and I have as much to love here as any man, and life is very bright to me. But, still, I am ready to leave it any day, without trepidation or regret, for that heaven which I know awaits me, through the mercy of my Heavenly Father. And I would not agree to the slightest diminution of one shade of my glory there" [Here he paused, as though to consider what terrestrial measure he might best select to express the largeness of his joys] - "No: not for all the fame which I have acquired, or shall ever win in this world." With these words he sunk into his chair, and his friend retired- awe-struck, as though he had seen the face of an angel. But he did not fail to notice the revelation made of Jackson's master-passion by nature, in the object he had chosen to express the value of his heavenly inheritance. It was fame! Not wealth, nor domestic joys, nor literature- but well-earned fame. Let the young aspirant consider also, how even this passion, which the world calls the most honorable of all, was chastened and crucified in him by a nobler longing."

All quotes are from Life and Campaigns of Lt. General T.J. (Stonewall) Jackson by R.L. Dabney.

The Spiritual Life of Stonewall Jackson

Gen. Robert E. Lee made his first move of the war to move the fighting out of Virginia in which the battle of Antietam was fought and won in by the Confederate army, not the Union army as some would say (you can read the book about that). This battle occurred in September of 1862. Gen. Lee moved back across the Potomac River into Virginia and in his columns rear was fought a little known battle of Boteler's Ford. At this point Gen. McClellan's advanced force crossed the river in order to engage the Confederate Army. He was met by Gen. Jackson who turned and destroyed this body of men and sent them swimming back across the river. After this battle was won and the months of hard fighting had finally been silenced Gen. Jackson and his men found themselves back near Winchester to rest and be resupplied. Here among other places began the work of the Lord amongst the soldiers and officers that other books have been dedicated to. As I read today I came across a few letters written to his wife that show how the Lord was working. It may also help to read these knowing that this man had obtained a great reputation as a leader of men and warrior to those at home, the enemy and those overseas.

From Bunker Hill, October 13th he writes:
"Mr. G- invited me to be present at communion in his church yesterday, but I was prevented from enjoying the privilege. But I heard an excellent sermon from the Rev. Dr. S-. His text was I Timothy, chap. ii: 5th and 6th verses." ("For there is one God, and one Mediator between God and men, the man Christ Jesus, who gave himself a ransom for all, to be testified in due time.") "It was a powerful exposition of the word of God. He is a great revival minister; and when he came to the word 'himself', he placed an emphasis on it, and gave to it, through God's blessing, a power that I never before felt.... And I felt, with an intensity that I never before recollect having realized, that truly the sinner who does not, under gospel privileges, turn to God, deserves the agonies of perdition. The Doctor several times in appealing to the sinner, repeated the sixth verse 'Who gave himself a ransom for all, to be testified in due time,' What more could God do than give himself a ransom?....He is laboring in a revival in General Ewell's division. Oh, it is a glorious privilege to be a minister of the gospel of the Prince of Peace! There is no equal position in this world."

Several days later on October 27th Gen. Jackson wrote his wife again:

"Our God makes me so many friends! I mention these things in order that you may see how much kindness has been shown me; and to express things for which I should be more grateful, and to give you renewed cause for gratitude."......"Don't trouble yourself about representations that are made of me. These things are earthly and transitory. There are real and glorious blessings, I trust, in reserve for us, beyond this life. It is best for us to keep our eyes fixed upon the throne of God, and the realities of a more glorious existence beyond the verge of time. It is gratifying to be beloved, and to have our conduct approved by our fellow men; but this is not worthy to be compared with the glory that is in reservation for us, in the presence of the glorified Redeemer. Let us endeavor to adorn the doctrine of Christ our Saviour, in all things; knowing that there awaits us 'a far more exceeding and eternal weight of glory.' I would not relinquish the slightest diminution of that glory, for all this world, and all that it can give. My prayer is, that such may ever be the feeling of my heart. It appears to me that it would be better for you not to have any thing written about me. Let us follow the teaching of inspiration: 'Let another praise thee, and not thyself.' I appreciate the loving interest that prompted the desire."

These quote are taken from Life and Campaigns of Lt. General T. J. (Stonewall) Jackson by R.L. Dabney.

"And we know that God causes all things to work together for good to those who love God, to those who are called according to His purpose." Romans 8:28

As I have been reading Life and Campaigns of Lt. General T.J. (Stonewall) Jackson by R. L. Dabney I have noticed a simple theme throughout the life of this great man, Gen. Jackson. I have come across many times in writing to his wife and with friends reminds them of this truth. I must admit this has been an easy truth when my circumstances are good, but when the Lord is not near, or when circumstances are not what we would desire, this is a much harder truth to find comfort in. Jackson's life, especially after Virginia seceded and those brave patriots that called her home prepared to defend all that they held dear, was approaching a very difficult road, yet he held this truth and found comfort and joy in it. Gen. Jackson told a friend before the war, "Why should the peace of a true Christian be disturbed by anything which man can do unto him? Has not God promised to make all things work together for good to them that love him?"

While reading this book and others I have read in great detail the position of the Southern Confederacy and the truth about who the real defenders of the constitution were. It has been hard these last few days, and it will be hard this entire year here in Kentucky, seeing that Lincoln is being celebrated and Kentucky claims him, one cannot avoid hearing the things that are said about this man, praising him. I thought Dabney put it well when he spoke of the Lincoln administration, "and to crown all, the Constitution of the United States was rent in fragments by the assumption of the President to levy new forces, to wage war, without authority of any law of Congress, and to coerce sovereign States into adhesion, in the utter absence of all intentions and powers to that effect, in the Federal Compact." This war was no Civil War, it was not a rebellion, it was rightly what those in the South called it, the second war of independence. No law was broken, no treason committed by those of the South and when it came time to decide to stand with the Founders and the patriots who gave their lives and blood for liberty and freedom Dabney says this, "nearly all accepted the stern conclusion, that nothing remained except that alternative between base submission or resistance, in which no honest man ever hesitates." All the South loved the Union and held the Constitution, the Bill of Rights and the Declaration of Independence in the highest place.

All this said to show why men like Gen. Jackson fought so hard and for so long, even with all the odds against them. I end with this quote taken from a letter Gen. Jackson wrote to his wife. Jackson's valley campaign had been a huge success and without even knowing he was gone Jackson joined his forces to those of Gen. Lee at Richmond where they struck a heavy blow to Gen. McClellan's army on the peninsula. Gen. Jackson then returned to the Valley and struck out at Gen. Pope at Cedar Run and won yet another brilliant victory. After the battle he wrote his wife:

" On last Saturday our God again crowned our arms with victory, about six miles from Culpepper Court House. All glory be to God for his unnumbered blessings.
I can hardly think of the fall of Brigadier-General C.S. Winder, without tearful eyes. Let us all unite more earnestly in imploring God's aid in fighting our battles for us. The thought that there are so many of God's people praying for His blessing upon the army, which, in His providence, is with me, greatly strengthens me. If God be for us, who can be against us? That He will still be with us, and give us victory after victory, until our independence shall be established, and that He will make our nation that people whose God is the Lord, is my earnest and oft-repeated prayer. Whilst we attach so much importance to being free from temporal bondage, we must attach far more to being free from the bondage of sin."