John Newton and "Amazing Grace"

A Reflection on Today's Reading

 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.

More details of his life can be found here and here.