Author: Johann Heermann; Catherine Winkworth, 1829-1878 Meter: 11.11.11.5 Appears in 22 hymnals Scripture: 2 Corinthians 5:17-21 First Line: O dearest jesus, what law have you broken Lyrics: 1 O dearest Jesus, what law have you broken
that such sharp sentence should on you be spoken?
Of what great crime have you to make confession--
what dark transgression?
2 They crown your head with thorns, they smite, they scourge you;
with cruel mockings to the cross they urge you;
they give you gall to drink, they still decry you;
they crucify you.
3 What is the source of all your mortal anguish?
It is my sins for which you, Lord, must languish;
yes, all the wrath, the woe, that you inherit,
this I do merit.
4 How strange is this great paradox to ponder;
the shepherd dies for sheep who love to wander;
the master pays the debt his servants owe him,
who would not know him.
5 O wondrous love, whose depth no heart hath sounded,
that brought you here, by foes and thieves surrounded,
conquer my heart, make love its sole endeavor
henceforth forever! Topics: Holy Week; Christ--Sacrifice of; Christian paradox; Christian year--Holy Week; Christian year--Lent Used With Tune: HERZLIEBSTER JESU
O Dearest Jesus, What Law