Sunday, 14th December, 2025
Bible Reading: Luke 18:38-43
Memory Verse: When Bartimaeus heard that Jesus of Nazareth was nearby, he began to shout, “Jesus, Son of David, have mercy on me!” Mark 10:47 (NLT)
“Pass Me Not, O Gentle Saviour” is a deeply moving hymn written in 1868 by Fanny J. Crosby, one of the most prolific hymn writers in history. Despite being blind from infancy, Fanny wrote over 8,000 hymns that continue to inspire generations. This particular hymn captures a desperate cry for divine attention and mercy, and its backstory adds layers of meaning to its heartfelt lyrics.
The Story Behind the Hymn
Fanny Crosby was visiting a prison as part of her ministry work. During the service, she heard one of the prisoners cry out, “Good Lord, do not pass me by!” The raw desperation in his voice struck a deep chord in her spirit.
That night, back at home, those words echoed in her heart. Inspired by that inmate’s plea, she wrote the poem that would become the lyrics to “Pass Me Not, O Gentle Saviour.” The music was later composed by William H. Doane, a frequent collaborator with Crosby.
Lessons from the Hymn
1. A Cry for Mercy: The hymn teaches that it is okay, and even essential to cry out to God in desperation. Like the blind man in Luke 18:38 who shouted, “Jesus, Son of David, have mercy on me!” this hymn is a plea to God not be ignored in a moment of need.
2. God’s Attention is Personal: While God may be working in the lives of others, this hymn reminds us that He can work in your life too. It’s not selfish to ask God not to overlook you. He is faithful.
3. Humility Before God: “Hear my humble cry” is a confession of dependence. It shows that approaching God requires humility, acknowledging that we can’t save or help ourselves.
4. Hope for the Broken: That the inspiration came from a prisoner underscores a key truth: No one is too far gone for God’s mercy. Whether behind bars or behind emotional walls, grace is still available.
5. God Responds to Faith: The hymn reflects a spirit of faith that believes God is willing and able to respond. It doesn’t just plead, it trusts.
Challenge: What are you passing through? Are you battered, tattered and shattered? If you can cry for mercy, the tides will turn.
Quote: When everything fails, mercy still stands an upper chance.
Prophetic Decree: Let the door of mercy open for you today, in Jesus name.
Prayer Focus
1. From the pit of life, O mercy of God, locate me today, in Jesus name.
2. I break any hindrance to the mercy of God from locating me, in Jesus name.
3. Lord, pull me out from my miry clay, by your hand of mercy, in Jesus name.
4. I receive the inspiration of the Holy Ghost to show me the answers to the mysteries surrounding my life, in Jesus name.
5. Mercy that prevails over judgement, speak for my (mention the area of your critical need), in Jesus name.
BIBLE IN ONE YEAR: Colossians 1-4, Philemon 1
