Moravian Book of Worship ‎#351

351. O Dearest Jesus, What Law

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!

Text Information

• First Line: O dearest jesus, what law have you broken
• Title: O Dearest Jesus, What Law
• Author: Johann Heermann (1630)
• Translator: Catherine Winkworth, 1829-1878 (alt.)
• Meter: 11.11.11.5.
• Language: English
• Publication Date: 1995
• Scripture:
  Isaiah 53
  ;
  Matthew 27:15-26
  ;
  Mark 15:16-32
  ;
  2 Corinthians 5:17-21
• Topic: Holy Week; Christ--Sacrifice of; Christian paradox; Christian year--Holy Week; Christian year--Lent

Tune Information

• Name: HERZLIEBSTER JESU
• Composer: Johann Crüger (1640)
• Meter: 11.11.11.5.
• Key: f minor