In worship today, we sang Chris Tomlin's version of "Amazng Grace." Tomlin's version adds the chorus, "My chains are gone." It is the song used in the upcoming movie - Amazing Grace - about the life and political struggle of William Wilberforce. Wilberforce was the "conscience of Parliament" in England over the issue of slavery in the late 1700's and early 1800's. It was in 1807 that legislation he had been resubmitting for nearly 20 years was finally passed to outlaw the trafficking in slaves by English companies and ships.
It was nearly another 20 years before slavery was abolished throughout the British empire. Less than 72 hours after the vote to abolish slavery, Wilberforce died! What an amazing man. What a legacy of a Christian serving as a social conscience to a nation. How many lesser persons would have abandoned their "good idea" after getting shot down for so many years? Makes you think.
If you want to check out the website and learn about modern day slavery, cut and paste the site listed below (namely b/c I haven't figured out how to insert a link:-)
http://www.amazinggracemovie.com/
1 comment:
What a super great idea that "drama" was with the song. Everyone I have talked to thought it was really effective. What a powerful song.
Nicole
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