St. Crispin

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You bring the Hymnal, I'll bring the History
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The invalid Charlotte Elliot, was aghast that anyone would ask about the condition of her soul. But in May, 1822, that is what the visitor, Dr. Cesar Malan, asked of her. Later in the visit she apologized to her guest and said, “I am sorry for my rudeness. Actually I would like to come to Christ, but I do not know how to find him.” Dr. Malan knew that she had been relying on her own efforts for her salvation from sin and so replied, “come just as you are. Cut the cable; it will take too long to unloose it. It is small loss anyway.” Twelve years later, in 1834, Charlotte was unable to help in fund raising effort in which her brother was involved. Her thoughts were of her useless invalid condition, but then her thoughts turned to God’s grace. She thought of how God saved her and keeps her and these thoughts inspired her to write a poem about the gospel of pardon, peace, and heaven; “Just as I Am, Without One Plea.”

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(There are six stanzas to this hymn, I have chosen my favorite three)

Just as I am, without one plea,
But that thy blood was shed for me,
And that thou biddest me come to thee,
O Lamb of God, I come! I come!

Just as I am, tho tossed about
With many a conflict, many a doubt,
Fightings within and fears without,
O Lamb of God, I come! I come!

Just as I am, thou wilt receive,
wilt welcome, pardon, cleanse, relieve,
Because thy promise I believe,
O Lamb of God I come! I come!
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