Amazing Grace is perhaps the most well-known, well-loved, often-used and most-quoted Christian hymn of our era. It is the hymn most used at weddings and funerals, regardless of the faith affiliation of the couple or deceased. It is estimated to be sung at least 10 million times annually, and has appeared on over 11,000 albums. It had a surge of popularity during the American Civil Rights movement and the Vietnam War. Judy Collins, Aretha Franklin, Ray Charles, Johnny Cash, Willie Nelson, Elvis Presley and even President Obama have all offered memorable renditions of the hymn.

There is a recurrent image in my head, as I read today’s reading, of the formerly blind man leading our congregation in the singing of this hymn, particularly the line: “was blind, but now I see.” For those of us who have lived our lives with near-perfect sight, it is difficult to imagine what such an experience might be like. Here’s an example to help.

It is perhaps ironic that this stirring hymn, closely associated with the African-American community, was written by a former African slave trader, John Newton. The Christian Church was an avid supporter of the slave trade for many years. It was believed that slavery was a God-given right, as sanctioned by the Bible. In particular, the story of the Noah’s curse of Ham to slavery (Genesis 9), partnered with the belief that dark-skinned people descended from Ham, gave rise to the belief that slavery was simply God’s plan for some people – that is, dark-skinned people.

In the famous story of Newton’s conversion, in which he was caught in a storm off the coast of Ireland, he prayed, and miraculously floated to safety, Newton’s eyes were opened to the glory of God’s amazing grace. Sadly, despite his newfound passionate faith, Newton’s attitude to slavery and dark-skinned people remained. Newton admitted himself that he was an unfeeling observer and a ruthless businessman of the Africans he traded, often using physical violence to keep ship passengers quiet.

It took a number of years for Newton’s eyes to be opened to the value of every human life, regardless of colour. It was only after he became a priest and hymn-writer that he began to regret his involvement in the slave trade. It was Rev. Newton who then influenced William Wilberforce MP to work for the abolition of slavery. This dream was realised in 1807. Ironically, Newton was nearly blind by this time.

Some blindnesses are cured instantly, with shocking Eureka moments of profound clarity. Other blindnesses take time to cure. This last Tuesday 21^st March was Harmony Day, coinciding with the United Nations’ International Day for the Elimination of Racial Discrimination. I wonder what blindnesses you hold, that need the mud and spit of Jesus to remove?