AMAZING GRACE, MY CHAINS ARE GONE.

Standing by the hospital bed of my friend, I watched his cancer-ridden frame gasp his final breathe. It was over. His lifeless body was motionless.

I stood still with my friend's family, our hands clasped, fully encircling the bed. Not a word, not a whisper, until softly, slowly, my friend's family began to sing. In perfect harmony...

Amazing grace, how sweet the sound, that saved a wretch like me!

I once was lost, but now I'm 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.

My chains are gone, I've been set free. My God my Savior ransomed me.

And like a flood His mercy reigns, Unending love, amazing grace.

In sweet assurance, we gave thanks for God’s mercy and grace. My friend’s chains had been released. He was free. No more cancer. No more pain. No more hospital beds. My friend was skipping into his beautiful new home. Like a flood, God’s mercy filled our hearts.

I’m thankful for the promise of Heaven…  

“… think on these things” (Philippians 4:8, KJV).