The Lodestar

The hymn 'Amazing Grace' is a powerful reminder of God's grace and forgiveness. It is a song of hope for those who have been lost and found, and it is a reminder that no one is beyond God's love. It is a reminder that no matter how far we have strayed, God's grace is always available to us.

The story behind the hymn 'Amazing Grace' is a powerful one of redemption and transformation. The hymn was written by John Newton, a former slave trader who turned to Christianity after experiencing a profound spiritual conversion. 'Amazing Grace' was one of his most famous hymns, and it has been translated into over two hundred languages.

Newton was born in London in 1725. His childhood was difficult, and he often rebelled against authority. As a young man, he joined the Royal Navy and served as a sailor for several years. In 1748, Newton was captain of a slave ship that was caught in a violent storm off the coast of Ireland. The ship was almost destroyed, and Newton himself was nearly killed. During the storm, he cried out to God for mercy. This experience marked a turning point in his life, and he began to question his involvement in the slave trade.

He later became an Anglican clergyman and a hymn writer. In 1772, he wrote the words for 'Amazing Grace', a song that expressed his gratitude for God's mercy and forgiveness. He also joined the campaign for the abolition of slavery, which was achieved in the British Empire in 1807, shortly before his death.

He died in 1807 at the age of eighty-two.

Click here for one of many renditions of this hymn with lyrics.