Life comes at you hard and fast. Nothing could possibly prepare us for everything life has in store, in both good times and bad. This has been a year of firsts for a lot of our friends and family. Though we love on and pray for them continuously, as they continue to do so for us, we are never prepared when life ceases to make sense.

This song is a source of peace for many people facing all kinds of turmoil, myself included. Even in unsuspecting situations when this song comes on, or I bust out into my own song and dance show, it puts my heart at ease.

Did you know it was published in 1779? Or that it was first written to illustrate a sermon on New Year’s Day of 1773? How cool is it that with this iconic song it is unknown if there was any music accompanying the verses at that time ? Or that it may have simply been chanted by the congregation. You can learn anything from Wikipedia. What a great anthem to ring in the new year.

Amazing Grace, How sweet the sound

That saved a wretch like me

I once was lost, but now am found

T’was blind but now I see

T’was 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

We have already come.

T’was grace that brought us safe thus far

And grace will lead us home

‘Twas Grace that taught my heart to fear, and Grace my fears relieved… Death of a child or a parent, especially, is fear like I cannot explain.

Twice yesterday I caught my heart in my throat. I learned that a woman I’ve met a few times in passing has birthed and buried her baby in the few weeks since I last saw her. Why do all babies not growup to lead full lives of amazing opportunities? Please add this family to your prayers. Of course my mind drifts to the sweet family I shared with you a few months ago. Why do perfect big brothers get taken away too soon? I miss Parker and the lighthearted humor his parents shared with all of us on his behalf. Please continue to reach out, love on, and cover this family in prayers as they navigate in a world missing this precious smile

The second time I caught my heart in my throat was during the funeral of my best friends father. Specifically when this picture was shown, to the Wade Bowen version of this song. I included it below for y’all to check out because it’s my favorite and so is Mr. Bowen. Gave me all of the feels, every last one of’em.

Death is an incomprehensible thing, what do you mean “they’re no longer with us”? How does that even make sense? Parents and babies are invincible, right? Isn’t that how it should be? When did we get old enough for this kind of stuff?

We love our Barden. We love everything he adds to our lives and marriage through his love and friendship. His Mama and Sister are pretty great, too. They raised a good one.

Thank God in Heaven he gives us this amazing grace to relieve all of our fears and cleanse us for his glory.