Recently, we had occasion to take note of the James Waddel (1739-1805), the "Blind Preacher of Virginia." Today, we are highlighting another blind Presbyterian minister, in this case from Maryland, who became blind at the age of six, and who despite his handicap, graduated from Princeton, and faithfully preached Christ, though his life and ministry on this earth was brief: William Henry Fentress (1851-1880).
Shortly before he died of possible tuberculosis, he published a devotional that breathes of the exaltation of Christ: Love Truths From the Bible (1879). Indeed, this work exudes the love of Christ on every page. If you are looking for an encouraging Presbyterian devotional from the late 19th century, you have found such a one here.
This writer was particularly struck by the last chapter, "No Sea in Heaven," based on Rev. 21:1 ("There was no more Sea."). The words of Samuel Rutherford came to mind: "Believe God's love and power more than you believe your own feelings and experiences. Your rock is Christ, and it is not the rock that ebbs and flows but the sea." If your soul is restless like the sea, take time to read Fentress' sweet devotional which points like a compass to Christ.