I Stand All Amazed...

I have always loved how music helps facilitate the teaching of the spirit. On Sunday I was leading the music in church and I had one of those testimony building experiences. We were singing the hymn, I Stand All Amazed, when the force of the reality of those words hit me like a ton of bricks. I started sobbing (quite embarrassing since I was up in front of everyone) as I thought, with complete awe, how much The Savior loves me -- in spite of my many sins, shortcomings, and faults. I am a soul that is, at times, very rebellious and proud. Sometimes I want to do it my way, even if that is not the best way, or even His way. I continually make mistakes and in my pride, don't repent right away. And through it all, He continues to love me and hope that I will do better. In my brain, of course I know this, but my heart can sometimes forget. I am so grateful for music and these beautiful words I was able to sing on Sunday. They helped my heart to again focus on Jesus Christ and His atonement and the reality and truth of His love. I am truly grateful for little "a ha" moments like this to strengthen me, especially when the road is difficult.


I Stand All Amazed (hymn 193)

1. I stand all amazed at the love Jesus offers me,
Confused at the grace that so fully he proffers me.
I tremble to know that for me he was crucified,
That for me, a sinner, he suffered, he bled and died.

[Chorus]
Oh, it is wonderful that he should care for me Enough to die for me!
Oh, it is wonderful, wonderful to me!

2. I marvel that he would descend from his throne divine
To rescue a soul so rebellious and proud as mine,
That he should extend his great love unto such as I,
Sufficient to own, to redeem, and to justify.

3. I think of his hands pierced and bleeding to pay the debt!
Such mercy, such love and devotion can I forget?
No, no, I will praise and adore at the mercy seat,
Until at the glorified throne I kneel at his feet.

Text and music: Charles H. Gabriel, 1856–1932