Reading Newton’s Mail
Last year I was a little surprised, and much encouraged, by the response to my blog posts featuring John Newton (1725–1807). I’ve since put more thought into how to expand these posts which led to a plan that should work out nicely. The plan is to publish these meditations each week on CJ’s blog, under the series title: “Reading Newton’s Mail.” Last Friday I published a brief intro to the series. Today I posted the first installment: “Aiming High, Missing Low, Aiming High Again,” highlighting Newton’s thoughts on the spiritual disciplines, both in our ambitious pursuit of them and in responding to personal failures. In all likelihood I will continue to post brief excerpts from Newton here on Miscellanies, but the meditations will now appear each Friday on Cheap Seats. Should be fun. Thanks for reading!
Posted on January 28, 2011, in John Newton. Bookmark the permalink. 3 Comments.
I have to admit brother, I am at the very least, a little jealous….maybe a lot even. Banner of Truth has been out of stock on Newton’s Works for months now, which means, I can’t get them, and you are just blogging right through them, on a couple of blogs now. That’s just great. Well, God bless the heck out of you too!!! ;-)
I did my best. In November I nudged the BoT folks to get copies made but (understandably) the process cannot be rushed. Do you have Letters of John Newton? That’s a good appetizer as you wait for the chefs to get moving along. Blessings! Tony
Well, I couldn’t wait so I bought Newton’s Works used through Amazon. Got them yesterday and that was exciting because each individual volume was wrapped in brown packing paper. That was like opening six presents!
When I began reading his writings, I feel that I could weep the way I do when I hear Amazing Grace and realize why he had to be the man who would be used to write that hymn.
I know I will be blessed as I read him more. I tell you all this as a thank you because as I build my own Puritan Library, your quotes and excitement for books has helped tremendously.
Thanks brother and God bless!