🌟 Heroes of Faith: Fanny Crosby, The Hymn Writer Who Saw with Her Heart
Fanny Crosby, born in 1820, is arguably the most prolific hymn writer in American history. Despite being permanently blinded at six weeks old due to medical malpractice, she refused to let her disability define her. Instead, she used her God-given talent to write thousands of hymns that have defined Christian worship for over a century. Her life epitomizes the theme of finding spiritual light in physical darkness.
A Life Defined by Choice
Fanny Crosby did not see her blindness as a tragedy, but as a providential blessing. She famously said: “If I had a choice, I would still choose to remain blind… for when I get to heaven, the first face that shall ever gladden my sight will be that of my Savior.”
Her faith was established early, but her calling was truly confirmed when she dedicated her talents fully to the Lord. She was a poet and teacher by trade, but her enduring legacy comes from her collaboration with famed composers of the late 19th-century revival era.
The Global Hymn Ministry
Crosby penned over 8,000 hymns and gospel songs, many of which remain cornerstones of the Christian church worldwide. She often wrote under several different pseudonyms (such as “A.V.C.” or “Mrs. Van Alstyne”) to avoid flooding hymn books with her name, demonstrating a humility aligned with focusing glory on God alone.
Her lyrics are simple, scripturally sound, and centered on the Savior’s presence and promise of Return, making them universally beloved and non-divisive. Among her most famous contributions are:
- “Blessed Assurance, Jesus Is Mine”
- “All the Way My Savior Leads Me”
- “To God Be the Glory”
- “Rescue the Perishing”
Faith in Action: A Legacy of Works
Crosby’s faith was not just theoretical; it was active. She spent a great deal of her time ministering in the city’s poorest areas, including the slums of New York City, demonstrating the practical works required of a true disciple.
Her hymn, “Rescue the Perishing,” was inspired by her desire to save the lost and neglected, showcasing her commitment to evangelism and compassion:
“Rescue the perishing, care for the dying, Snatch them in pity from sin and the grave; Weep o’er the erring one, lift up the fallen, Tell them of Jesus the mighty to save.”
Fanny Crosby’s life illustrates that true spiritual sight is not dependent on physical eyes. She saw the glory of God more clearly than many who had sight, and her unwavering testimony continues to encourage millions to place their full trust in Jesus Christ.