A Prince in Chains
In the late 19th century, a young African prince named Kaboo found himself in chains, a prisoner of a rival tribe in Liberia. Around 1887, at the tender age of 14, Kaboo endured the harsh reality of captivity, a pawn in tribal conflicts. Yet, it was in this darkness that a divine light shone brightly. During a brutal beating, Kaboo experienced a miraculous intervention—his bonds fell away, and he heard a voice urging him to flee. Following this divine guidance, he escaped to Monrovia, where he encountered Christian missionaries.
A New Name and Calling
Kaboo, now baptized as Samuel Morris, embraced Christianity with fervor. He was captivated by the story of the Apostle Paul's conversion and felt a deep calling to share the love of Jesus. A year spent with missionaries in Liberia only fueled his desire to be equipped for this calling. "Now, Father," he prayed, "you have called me to preach to my people, but the missionary says I can't preach without an education, and that to be educated I must go to America."
Simple Yet Profound Faith
In 1891, Samuel arrived in New York, driven by a divine purpose. His journey continued to Taylor University in Fort Wayne, Indiana, where his simple yet profound faith left an indelible mark on the community. Known for his humility, Samuel once said, "If there is a room nobody wants, give that to me." His life was a testament to the power of faith and the transformative love of Jesus.
Tell Them About Jesus
Samuel Morris's short life ended in 1893 due to pneumonia, but his legacy endures. He reminded all who met him to focus not on himself, but on the divine source of his strength. "Tell them not about poor Sammy Morris," he urged, "but about Jesus. Tell them about the Holy Ghost." Through his journey from a captive prince to a conduit of faith, Jesus was the one who saved, empowered, and transformed him, leaving a lasting impact on all who heard his story.
