AWAKE THE DAWN: "Amazing Grace"

There's a reason the hymn 'Amazing Grace' remains the favorite hymn for so many people. The powerful lyrics remind us that because of Jesus, none of us are ever lost because God is with us always. Learn the story behind Amazing Grace, read the complete lyrics and meditate with one of the favorite videos of this beautiful hymn.

"Amazing Grace" is a hymn published in 1779,  by the English poet and Anglican clergyman  John Newton. Newton wrote the words from personal experience. He grew up without any particular religious conviction, but his life's path was formed by a variety of twists and coincidences that were often put into motion by others' reactions to what they took as his recalcitrant insubordination.

He was conscripted into service in the Royal Navy. After leaving the service, he became involved in the Atlantic slave trade. In 1748, a violent storm battered his vessel off the coast in  Ireland so severely that he called out to God for mercy. This moment marked his spiritual conversion 

The intriguing part of the story is the marvelous love of God. As soon as he called, God answered him and delivered him. He does not keep count of our sins, rather he is watching and waiting eagerly for our return. And as the father of the prodigal son ran out with outstretched arms to welcome the lost son, so is the father ever ready to restore our relationship with him. He gave us Jesus so that we can be reconciled to him.  It is an unimaginable grace, unmerited, undeserving, amazingly gracious grace...far greater than all our sins.

o

Amazing grace
How sweet the sound
That saved a wretch like me
I was once lost but now I  found
Was blind but now I see

'Twas grace that taught my heart to fear
And grace my fears relieved
How gracious did the grace appear
The hour I first bleived

Through many dangers toils and snares
I have already come
'Twas grace that brought me thus so far 
And grace will lead me home