Amazing Grace (Movie)

There is an interesting new movie coming out about William Wilberforce's fight for the abolition of slavery in the British Empire. Of particular interest is his mentor John Newton, an Anglican clergyman who had once been a slaveship master, before becoming convinced that it was ungodly - and who is best known for his famous hymn Amazing Grace which captures the spirit of his conversion (see lyrics below).

This is a film I'm really looking forward to seeing, not least because it stars Ioan Gruffudd (of Hornblower fame). I've blogged more about the movie, and modern slavery on Cracked Jug.

“Amazing Grace”

Amazing grace, how sweet the sound
That sav’d a wretch like me!
I once was lost, but now am found,
Was blind, but now I see.

’Twas grace that taught my heart to fear,
And grace my fears reliev’d;
How precious did that grace appear,
The hour I first believ’d!

Thro’ many dangers, toils and snares,
I have already come;
’Tis grace has brought me safe thus far,
And grace will lead me home.

The Lord has promis’d good to me,
His word my hope secures;
He will my shield and portion be,
As long as life endures.

Yes, when this flesh and heart shall fail,
And mortal life shall cease;
I shall possess, within the veil,
A life of joy and peace.

The earth shall soon dissolve like snow,
The sun forbear to shine;
But God, who call’d me here below,
Will be forever mine.