Amazing Grace

Two times of hearing this song left me a very strong impression.

The first time was about ten years ago, during my former language school German classmate Ekhard and his Japanese wife Eriko's wedding ceremony. The bride Eriko sang this song in Japanese in the church. I did not know it was a Christian hymn. I simply found the melody a bit sad and was wondering why she had chosen this song for that kind of joyous occasion.

The second time was last week when I sang it together with others at Uncle Lee's wake service. As a forgiven sinner, I had truly experienced God's amazing grace in my life.

Amazing Grace

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

'Twas grace that taught my heart to fear,
And grace my fears relieved;
How precious did that grace appear
The hour I first believed!

Through many dangers, toils, and snares,
We have already come;
'Tis grace hath brought me safe thus far,
And grace will lead me home.

The Lord has promised good to me,
His word my hope secures;
He will my shield and portion be
As long as life endures.

Yes, when this flesh and heart shall fail,
And mortal life shall cease,
I shall possess, within the veil,
A life of joy and peace.

The earth shall soon dissolve like snow,
The sun forbear to shine;
But God, who called me here below,
Will be forever mine.

(by John Newton 1779)