[Originally published in the Monroe News on February 10, 2023]
250 years ago a curate in the Church of England wrote the words “Through many dangers, toils, and snares I have already come; His grace brought me safe thus far, His grace will lead me home”. These words were a part of several verses written by the author. They were written to help illustrate a New Year’s Day sermon. It is unlikely the author would have realized at the time the life these words would have or that the world would still be loving them and singing them 2 1/2 centuries later.
If you haven’t recognized those special words yet, they are one of the verses of the beloved hymn Amazing Grace. They were first written by John Newton. They, like most of the hymn itself, tell a bit of his story and his relationship with God. They are also part of one of the most well known and beloved hymns of all time. 
