PODCAST
God is Passionate About People
July 16th, 2023
Isaiah 48:4-11
Even though blind from infancy, Fanny J. Crosby (1820–1915) composed the words to thousands of hymns, many still sung today.
Living in poor areas of New York City, Fanny took an interest in those on the margins, including immigrants, the poor, and the addicted, doing what she could to alleviate physical and spiritual suffering. Several of her hymns came out of her work in rescue mission facilities, including The Bowery. For instance, Fanny wrote “Rescue the Perishing” in 1869 when a young man came to Christ after she shared her testimony at one of the missions.
In the hymn, Fanny uses strong verbs to challenge Christians to share the gospel: rescue, care, snatch, weep, lift, tell, plead. Isaiah 48 corresponds with the second verse of the hymn: “Tho’ they are slighting Him, Still He is waiting–Waiting the penitent child to receive.” As God’s co-worker, Fanny shared God’s love whenever she could, encouraging other believers to do likewise.
Author: Karen Hiner
