Remembering Fanny Crosby
Born in 1820, Frances Jane Crosby, known affectionately as Fanny Crosby, stands as one of the most prolific hymn writers in Christian history. Despite facing enormous challenges from the very beginning of her life, Fanny’s legacy has left an indelible mark on Christian worship, with over nine thousand hymns to her name. Her life exemplified how unwavering faith and the pursuit of one's calling can transcend adversity.
Early Life and Challenges
Fanny Crosby's life began in an unlikely manner. At just six weeks old, an unfortunate medical error left her blind for life. A doctor’s ill-advised treatment for an eye infection resulted in permanent blindness, a condition that could have crushed the spirit of many. However, Fanny’s mother, Mercy, was determined to raise her daughter to be resilient and independent. Instead of succumbing to self-pity, Fanny embraced her circumstances with courage, guided by her mother’s loving and unyielding encouragement.
The Crosby family’s roots ran deep, with ancestors arriving in the Massachusetts Bay Colony in 1635. Fanny’s heritage, however, did not determine her destiny. Instead, it was the love, resilience, and education she received from her family that paved the way for her extraordinary contributions to Christian hymnody.
Though Fanny could not see the world around her, she found comfort and purpose through the power of words. Raised in upstate New York, she spent her childhood immersed in literature, poetry, and the Bible. Her family’s commitment to providing her with a rich education meant that she memorized vast sections of the Bible, with some accounts even claiming she memorized entire books. This deep connection to scripture became the foundation of her hymn writing.
From a young age, Fanny began composing poems, and her conversion to Christ was significantly influenced by the hymns she heard. One hymn that particularly impacted her was Isaac Watts’ “Alas, and Did My Savior Bleed?” It was during a moment of listening to this hymn that she gave her life to Christ, committing herself fully to His service.
Education and Influence
In the 1830s, Fanny’s journey took a pivotal turn when she was sent to the New York Institute for the Blind, an institution that would play a significant role in shaping her future. Here, she spent twelve years as a student and another eleven years as a teacher. It was in this nurturing environment that Fanny honed her intellectual and artistic abilities.
At the New York Institute for the Blind, Fanny formed meaningful relationships that would shape both her personal and professional life. She met Alexander Van Alstyne, a fellow blind person who became not only her husband but also her musical collaborator. Alexander, an accomplished organist, composed many of the tunes that accompanied Fanny’s lyrics. Their partnership was a beautiful illustration of how God can use individuals, no matter their circumstances, to accomplish His purposes.
Fanny’s involvement with the Institute led her to meet a music publisher, which opened the door for her to begin earning a living as a hymn writer. For each hymn, she received two dollars, a modest sum, but one that allowed her to continue her ministry through music.
A Legacy of Hymns
Fanny Crosby’s impact on the Christian church cannot be overstated. Her hymns have stood the test of time, inspiring believers across generations. Among her most famous works are “To God Be the Glory,” “All the Way My Savior Leads Me,” and “Blessed Assurance.” Each of these songs continues to resonate deeply within the church today.
“Blessed Assurance,” in particular, has become one of the most well-known hymns in the world. Its words—“Jesus is mine; Oh, what a foretaste of glory divine”—are a powerful testimony to the assurance and hope found in Christ. Fanny Crosby's writing was not just about melody and rhyme; it was about conveying the deep truths of the Christian faith, encapsulating the hope and joy that come from a life committed to Christ.
Fanny wrote her last hymn just a day before she passed away in 1915, leaving behind a legacy of timeless songs. She once said, “If I had a choice, I would still choose to be blind, for the first face I shall ever see will be that of my blessed Savior.” This statement exemplifies her unwavering faith, as she viewed her blindness as a means to focus more intently on the things of God and less on the distractions of the world.
Theological and Spiritual Impact
Fanny Crosby's hymns became the theological soundtrack of the 19th century Gospel movement. Her words encapsulated the heart of evangelism, mission, and worship. The words of hymns like “Rescue the Perishing” reflect her deep desire to reach out to those who were lost and in need of God’s mercy and grace. “Jesus is merciful, Jesus will save,” she wrote, echoing the core message of the Gospel.
In a world that often seeks to place limits on those who are perceived as different, Fanny’s life and work are a testament to what can be accomplished when one surrenders fully to God. She faced a life of hardship, but she allowed her limitations to become opportunities for God to display His glory through her. She once penned the words, "Master, Thou callest, I gladly obey; Only direct me, and I’ll find Thy way," a reflection of her constant obedience and willingness to follow God’s leading, no matter the circumstances.
A Reflection on Her Life
As we remember Fanny Crosby, it is important to reflect on the profound lessons her life teaches us. First, Fanny’s story challenges us to find strength in our weaknesses. Her blindness did not define her or limit her; instead, she embraced it as a means to live more fully for Christ. Second, her life speaks to the power of perseverance and faith. Despite early hardships, including the loss of her father and her blindness, she remained steadfast in her trust in God’s plan for her life.
Fanny Crosby’s legacy also calls us to embrace our gifts and talents, however seemingly small or insignificant, and to use them for God’s glory. In a world that often celebrates fame and worldly success, Fanny’s life reminds us that true fulfillment comes from serving God faithfully, regardless of public recognition or personal accolades.
Finally, as we sing the timeless hymns Fanny wrote, we are reminded that faith, hope, and love are the enduring qualities that carry us through life's trials. Whether we are singing “To God Be the Glory” or “Blessed Assurance,” Fanny Crosby’s hymns continue to inspire, uplift, and challenge believers to keep their eyes fixed on Jesus, the author and perfecter of our faith.
Conclusion
Fanny Crosby’s life and hymns are a testament to the power of God’s grace and the resilience of the human spirit. Her faith, creativity, and perseverance have left a lasting legacy that continues to inspire the church. As we reflect on her contributions to Christian worship and hymnody, let us be reminded of her unwavering trust in God’s plan and her commitment to glorifying Him through every word she wrote. May her story encourage us all to live faithfully, trusting in the goodness of God, and to use our gifts to share His love with the world.
Reference
She Saw the Light of Christ: The Story of Fanny Crosby - Dr. Blake Killingsworth, DBU Staff
