This week we have been meditating on the first verse of this famous hymn written by John Newton. The hymn testifies to the transformation that took place in Newton’s life. A former slave ship captain facing death in a sea storm, cried out to God for mercy. His life was transformed and he joined Wilberforce in fighting slavery in England. Newton wrote this hymn sharing how he went from “wretched,” “lost,” and “blind” to being “found” and “seeing.”
Tomorrow our Gospel text will take us from Easter morning and all the “He is risen” rejoicing to followers hiding behind locked doors for fear of what might happen. May we enjoy this hymn this morning and ponder what the doors that lock us in fear that Jesus can walk through and offer us “peace,” purpose and presence. Blessings!
On the Way to Wonder 