Text and Music: John Newton (1725-1807) Stanza 6 anon.
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
I have already come;
‘Tis Grace that brought me safe thus far
and Grace will lead me 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.
Yea, when this flesh and heart shall fail,
And mortal life shall cease,
I shall possess within the veil,
A life of joy and peace.
When we’ve been here ten thousand years
Bright shining as the sun.
We’ve no less days to sing God’s praise
Than when we’ve first begun.
Scripture reference: Ephesians 1-3
Few do not know this hymn. Many know the story of the author’s salvation and restoration to God through the imprisoned slaves on a ship.
My own personal testimony about the healing, uplifting power of these words occurred at my father’s funeral. My dad and I had a – difficult – relationship. Many say it was because we were so much alike. There is a truth in that statement. This song was played – extraordinarily played – on a guitar at Dad’s funeral. It was a healing moment. And the healing did not stop there. It continued seven years later at my mother’s funeral. I was sitting there at her graveside feeling sad and thinking about many regrets. Regrets are a reality on occasions like a funeral but they are not constructive as there is little that we can do to “fix†the regrets at that point. As I was sitting there, in silence, and with little thought I opened my mouth and began singing “Amazing Graceâ€. Maybe due to my singing voice – maybe the prompting of the Holy Spirit, people joined in. It was another healing moment that has given me great peace when I now think of my parents. I sing this song with great joy now as I testify to the power and all-encompassing scope of God’s love for me.
The Scripture I referenced today may seem long but it will bless you and heal you if you take some time to read and receive it.
