Flogged for desertion and starving, John Newton entered the slave trade. A violent storm at sea was the turning point for Newton. At 23, Newton was on board a ship fighting for his life. Worn out from pumping and nearly frozen, he called out for God’s mercy. Saved from the sea and like a prodigal son, he returned home to his father who reportedly said, “he was lost and has been found.” After many twists and turns in his life, he left the slave trade and became a minister. He and young William Wilberforce joined together to abolish slave trading.

Amazing Grace is often said to be the hymn that best described Newton’s feeling when he was saved from the storm. He was most definitely a wretch, as we all are. He was blind to his sin, as we are too. But he did come to understand the saving grace of Jesus Christ. Once he found Christ, he felt like he was home. He did not have a “fun” life or a “safe” life, but he did find joy. Over his life time, he is credited with 268 hymns.