Mary Noble Sustained by Lord's Comfort During Separation from Joseph Bates Noble

When Joseph Bates Noble was called to participate in Zion's Camp in May 1834, he came to take his leave of Mary, who was then teaching school in the neighborhood of her father. In Mary's own words: 'On the first of May he called in the evening to take his leave. He said he was going to start the next morning for Missouri. We bid adieu for a season, but under the most solemn engagement. At his return and if all of our lives were spared, we were to be united in the bonds of matrimony, for that cord of filial affection that was existing between us was not easily broken.' After Joseph departed for the dangerous mission to Missouri, Mary was left behind, anxiously waiting and praying for his safe return. She recorded: 'For six months my time was constantly employed either in school or at home almost every night. After I dismissed my school I would bow before the Lord and in my supplications I would remember the Zion's Camp as they were called, for I felt and realized that they would have a [difficult journey].' Throughout this period of separation and uncertainty, during which she did not know if Joseph would return alive or if they would ever be united, the Lord sustained Mary with comfort and faith. She continued her school teaching and maintained her prayers and supplications, trusting in the Lord's providence. Eventually, Joseph did return safely from Zion's Camp, and the engagement was fulfilled when they were united in marriage. This experience demonstrated the Lord's sustaining power in times of trial and separation.