http://https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=xtolv9kM1qk
Hard to believe it is seventy-six years since I Saw the Light was written by Hank Williams at age 24. The song powerfully coveys the hunger for salvation that was always a part of Williams’ brief and tragic life. Dead before he reached 30, Williams was a great talent, and he threw it all away with alcoholism and addiction to drugs, which shattered both his personal and professional life. His life typifies what Christ spoke of in this parable:
The seed falling among the thorns refers to someone who hears the word, but the worries of this life and the deceitfulness of wealth choke the word, making it unfruitful.
However, that is not all there is to say. This song has brought comfort to millions as they call upon Christ in this Vale of Tears. I hope it weighed heavily in the balance when Williams appeared before the God he clearly loved.
I wandered so aimless life filled with sin
I wouldn’t let my dear savior in
Then Jesus came like a stranger in the night
Praise the Lord I saw the light.
I saw the light I saw the light
No more darkness no more night
Now I’m so happy no sorrow in sight
Praise the Lord I saw the light.
Just like a blind man I wandered along
Worries and fears I claimed for my own
Then like the blind man that God gave back his sight
Praise the Lord I saw the light.
I saw the light I saw the light
No more darkness no more night
Now I’m so happy no sorrow in sight
Praise the Lord I saw the light.
I was a fool to wander and stray
For straight is the gate and narrow is the way
Now I have traded the wrong for the right
Praise the Lord I saw the light.
I saw the light I saw the light
No more darkness no more night
Now I’m so happy no sorrow in sight
Praise the Lord I saw the light.
Hank Williams was only 29 when he died, but looked like he was about 60. His alcoholism and drug addiction can be explained in part by the fact he had spinal bifida, which caused him a great deal of pain. If it weren’t for his musical talent, he would have had a difficult time making a living since his only other option would have been working in a shipyard for which was physically incapable.