The environment, speaking back…
For other “trees doing funny things,” see this EnvironmentalGraffiti.com piece.
As we compose our snappy ripostes, we might hum a birthday tune to John Newton, an Anglican clergyman and former slave-ship captain, born this date in 1725. He was the author of many hymns, including…
Amazing grace! (how sweet the sound)
That saved a wretch like me!
I once was lost, hut now am found,
Was blind, but now I see.
‘Twas grace that taught my heart to fear,
And grace my fears relieved;
How precious did that grace appear,
The hour I first believed!
Through 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 promised 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 called me here below,
Will be for ever mine.
(the original wording, which first appeared in “Olney Hymns” as “Hymn 41, Faith’s review and expectation”)