Amazing Grace, How Sweet the Sound, ELW 779 and LBW 448
1 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.
2 'Twas grace that taught my heart to fear,
and grace my fears relieved;
How precious did that grace appear
the hour I first believed!
3 Through many dangers, toils and snares
I have already come;
'tis grace has brought me safe thus far,
And grace will lead me home.
4 The Lord has promised good to me;
His word my hope secures;
He will my shield and portion be
As long as life endures.
5 When we've been there ten thousand years,
Bright shining as the sun,
We've no less days to sing God's praise
Than when we'd first begun.
Devotion
As a hospice chaplain, I minister to those who are dedicated to finishing life well, often connecting by discerning from them and family members their music and spiritual rituals. I’ve learned that everyone has a song that leads to tears or cheers, to favorite memories and sacred conversations. “Amazing Grace” is on that sing-able list; so is “America (My Country ’Tis of Thee)” and “You Are My Sunshine.” All music can be bridged to a God-connection. No matter how weak or discouraged a patient may be, “Happy Birthday” brings tears, a smile, and most often, a whispering sing-along. Their life began with “Happy Birthday” and is moving toward a new birth day, where all the candles of heaven will be lit to welcome them home to a gathering with the Lord’s eternal family.
Prayer
Let us pray (to the tune of “Happy Birthday”): May the Father bless you And the Holy Spirit, too. May the angels in heaven Keep watch over you!