Plucking the Eagle's Wings

Hebrew Parallels Associated with Early American History

equality and government by the consent of the governed. It was based on the theory of English Common Law that resulted from the Magna Carta. The same principle of government was articulated in the Declaration of Independence and later reflected in the United States Constitution. The Compact was signed on November 11, 1620. William Bradford, who later became governor of the colony, wrote of their landing at Provincetown: "Being thus arrived in a good harbor and brought safe to land, they fell upon their knees and blessed the God of heaven, who had brought them over the vast and furious ocean, and delivered them from all perils and miseries thereof, again to set their feet on the firm and stable earth, their proper element. And no marvel if they were thus joyful." This is remarkable in light of all the hardships they had endured. One hundred and two people had been stuffed between decks somewhat like sardines. The conditions were miserable, at best. They endured sickness and mockery from the crew. After arriving at Provincetown, Bradford's wife fell overboard and drowned. Although there were hardships, there were also miracles. While they were in the middle of the Atlantic, a fierce storm arose and snapped the crossbeam that supported the ship's mast. The situation was grave. The Pilgrims did the only thing they knew to do— they prayed! At this time, William Brewster, one of the elders, remembered that a large iron screw from his printing press was on board. A search ensued to find the screw. Once found, it was used to support the sagging crossbeam in its proper position. Everyone praised God for deliverance from a sure death. On December 21, 1620, after scouting for the best place to settle, a group of ten men stepped onto Plymouth Rock and made history. One might wonder if, as they stepped onto the rock, they thought of the Scripture, "Upon this rock, I will build my church" (Matthew 16:18). As they looked around, they saw an area that was perfect for habitation. There were four sources of water nearby, the harbor was deep enough to receive large ships, and the land was already cleared. It looked like it had been used for planting corn. It was as if someone had cleared it, used it, and then left it for them. Coincidentally, this day was the second day of Chanukah, the Jewish celebration of the rededication of God's house in Jerusalem. God's vineyard was growing and His house was about to take shape. The Miracles of the Plymouth Plantation

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