Amazing Grace

The very famous hymn “Amazing Grace” was written in 1772 by John Newton. As a young man, John Newton was in the Royal Navy briefly and then began a career as a slave ship captain. He was not a man of faith. After surviving a horrific storm at sea, he began to exhibit noticeable changes. He started to explore Christianity and indeed became more and more faithful. He also began to encourage his seamen to treat their charges with kindness and humanity. After a stroke forced him to leave the sea, he was ordained into Christian ministry in 1764. At the end of his life, he expressed regret that he had been involved in the slave trade and spoke out against the trafficking of human beings. We don’t know who wrote the well known and much beloved music that was combined with his lyrics long after John Newton was dead.

The succinct description penned by Newton of the grace offered to us by a loving God has lately intrigued me. He says so very much in so very few words. I have probably sung this hymn hundreds of times and never really actually read and internalized what it says. It is a standard at most funerals and is even popular in secular music circles. My request of you, the reader, is to read and carefully consider the words transcribed below. I need write nothing else. I am completely incapable of improving on the words as penned by a former slave trader more that two hundred years ago.

Amazing Grace, how sweet the sound,That saved a wretch like me -I once was lost but now am found,Was blind, but now, I see.

T'was Grace that taught -my heart to fear.And Grace, my fears relieved.How precious did that Grace appear -the hour I first believed.

Through many dangers, toils and snares -we have already come.T'was Grace that brought us safe thus far -and Grace will lead us home.

The Lord has promised good to me -His word my hope secures.He will my shield and portion be -as long as life endures.

When we've been here ten thousand years -bright shining as the sun.We've no less days to sing God's praise -then when we've first begun.

Amazing Grace, how sweet the sound,That saved a wretch like me -I once was lost but now am found,Was blind, but now, I see.


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