Just as I Am, Without One Plea, ELW 592
Devotion
Just as I am, without one plea,
but that thy blood was shed for me,
and that thou bidd'st me come to thee,
O Lamb of God, I come, I come.
Just as I am, though tossed about
with many a conflict, many a doubt,
fightings and fears within, without,
O Lamb of God, I come, I come.
Just as I am, thou wilt receive,
wilt welcome, pardon, cleanse, relieve;
because thy promise I believe,
O Lamb of God, I come, I come,
Just as I am; thy love unknown
has broken ev'ry barrier down;
now to be thine, yea, thine alone,
O Lamb of God, I come, I come.
Such treasure there is in our hymns! Very likely this hymn by Charlotte Elliot has touched more hearts and influenced more people for Christ than any other.
Elliot was born in England in 1789. Her first 30 years of life were bright and happy. But then her health began to fail rapidly and she was semi-invalid for the remainder of her 82 years. She was constantly beset by feelings of desponding and hopelessness.
In 1822, a noted Swiss evangelist, Caesar Malen, visited her home and through his counsel and his gospel proclamation she came to give herself fully to the Lord, just as she was.
With its powerful witness of utter dependence upon God and His grace this hymn proclaims the gospel in a most beautiful and sing-able fashion.
Prayer
Thank you, Lord, for those who write hymns and for those who build up these writers in the faith! We are grateful indeed for the words and music which help us to sing your praise and ask for you continued mercy. Keep us always singing. In Jesus' name, Amen.