In our parish bulletin,
the Reflection on today's scripture reading
refers to John Newton who wrote "Amazing Grace."
I found this so like the scripture verse
in Matthew 8:26 when the apostles' fear
became so great that they woke Jesus
that I had to share it with my readers.
Newton had been a slave trader and a drunk
when a violent storm threatened to sink his ship
with all those aboard.
For the first time in his life, he prayed.
He was saved as were those on his ship.
After that episode, he quit the slave trade
and spent the remainder of his life repenting,
writing hymns,
and eventually becoming a minister.
Remember this tale which sums up the grace
given Newton by God whenever singing or hearing this hymn.
Comments