Is It Really Amazing Grace?

Lately, I've been struck by the transformation that John Newton underwent when he encountered God in a raging storm while at sea. His encounter was so deep that he wrote the song Amazing Grace as a result. The words of this song continue to inspire hearts 200+ years later. When Mr. Newton's story ceased to be about himself, God was able to touch the world through him! Whoa, that is heavy stuff.

Mr. Newton described himself as a wretch and he was absolutely amazed that grace could even save him. Yet the God whom he praises in his wonderful song is able to do just that, because it is not about John Newton. It is about the Father who is described with words such as love, compassionate, merciful.

Why does John Newton experience the same grace I have experienced and he is transformed by it, and I seem not to be? It seems to me, that grace should cause a person to realize that they need a power much greater than themselves to reach down and save them. When they get to that moment what else can one do but bow down and confess, "I am not worthy, but you, oh God, love me anyway".

I don't believe I have been transformed in the same way John Newton has been. I also do not believe his transformation was an instantaneous event in his life. Grace, however, was something he was able to wrap his arms around as he grew in his relationship with his Father and he had to capture that with words. That is what I want. I don't want to be one who takes grace for granted. I want it to transform me so that my Father is able to use me to bless others as He works to draw them to Himself. Teach me oh Lord the depth of your grace in my life. Use it to transform me into the image of Jesus and help me to surrender my will to yours like Jesus did on his last night on earth. Father, I want my life to sing how amazing you are to the world!