Amazing Grace, Again and Again.
That is on my mind this morning. One of God’s attributes that continually blows me away is His penchant for showing GRACE. Someone once asked me what the definition of grace was and how was it different from mercy. I explained it this way:
Mercy is not getting what we do deserve.
Grace is getting what we don’t deserve.
It is the latter that gets my focus this morning. One of the most popular songs, which has been sung by church choirs, as well as “secular artists,” is the song Amazing Grace. The story of John Newton, the writer, is a story in and of itself. But that is for another time. I, for one, am continually made aware of my need for grace each day. I think my life/your life can be wrapped up in this saying:
I was saved by grace; I am being saved by grace; I will be saved by grace.
That, my friends, is what it all comes down to. I have absolutely nothing to bring to the table that will say, “Here I am God. I have done this and that. That should count for something.” Nope. Doesn’t work that way. It is either all grace or it comes down to works and the Bible says, “God saved you by his grace when you believed. And you can’t take credit for this; it is a gift from God. Salvation is not a reward for the good things we have done, so none of us can boast about it.” (Eph. 2:8-9 NLT) It really doesn’t get much clearer than that!
What has also brought my attention to this subject is a song I was made aware of about 2 weeks ago. On my Spotify app a random album under the heading “More Like _______” was a group called Ashes Awaken. I looked at the profile and decided I would listen. The song Amazing Grace, Again has just stuck with me. I like a certain style of music and this struck a chord with me. I know it is not for everyone but if you would give it a listen, I think you will see it is my story. It is your story. The video has the lyrics, just be patient with the cheesy AI part. Here is the video. (The band is a real band from PA not AI generated).
Remember as you go through your day today: you are a recipient of God’s amazing grace. You are loved beyond comprehension.
I loved this song, Bill, especially because of its powerful message to all of us. And I also loved how you defined the difference between mercy and grace, enough to write it down. If it’s okay with you, I might use it in a blog at some point?
Blessings!
First, I’m glad you liked the song. Least I’m not alone! 🙂 And for sure use the difference. I’m not sure where it came from (my own mind or someone else’s). But truth needs to be shared no matter where it comes from.
Absolute truth here, Bill. “I have absolutely nothing to bring to the table that will say, “Here I am God. I have done this and that. That should count for something.” Nope. Doesn’t work that way. It is either all grace or it comes down to works.” I have to constantly remind myself of this truth. It is do easy to fall into the mistaken dependency on works rather than grace.
Very true Pam. I think we all struggle with works vs grace more than we realize.
Grace is the most amazing gift from a loving Father that cannot in any way be anything we deserve. or can work for, its just pure amazing love, that is poured out on us from a perfect Father. I stand in complete awe, and with a thankful heart that God loves me in a way that cannot always be explained but can always be felt. Truly, the blessing of amazing grace is all that I need, thank-you Father for Your amzing love for me
I think the only proper reaction, Gail, is to stand in awe at God’s amazing love.
Powerful song, but I had to turn off the video… Apparently I am susceptible to the psychological phenomena known as “uncanny valley”.
I can’t watch “Polar Express” for the same reason.
Weirds me out… ok sorry for derailing the train… pun intended…
Amazing Grace for sure!
Now you see why I said cheesy video. That was NOT a good AI one. And since I am leery of AI that doesn’t help any. But it is a powerful song