1. O Jesu Christ, if aught there be
That, more than all beside,
In ever painful memory
Must in my heart abide,
2. It is that deep ingratitude
Which I to Thee have shown,
Who didst for me in tears and blood
Upon the cross atone.
3. Alas, how with my actions all
Has this defect entwined;
How has it poisoned with its gall
My spirit, heart and mind!
4. Alas, through this, how many a gem
I’ve rudely cast away,
That might have formed my diadem
In everlasting day!
5. Yet though the time be past and gone,
Though little more remains:
Though naught is all that can be done,
E’en with my utmost pains;
6. Still will I strive, O Savior mine,
To do what in me lies;
For never did Thy glance divine
A contrite heart despise.
Source: The Cyber Hymnal #5011
Edward Caswall was born in 1814, at Yately, in Hampshire, where his father was a clergyman. In 1832, he went to Brasenose College, Oxford, and in 1836, took a second-class in classics. His humorous work, "The Art of Pluck," was published in 1835; it is still selling at Oxford, having passed through many editions. In 1838, he was ordained Deacon, and in 1839, Priest. He became perpetural Curate of Stratford-sub-Castle in 1840. In 1841, he resigned his incumbency and visited Ireland. In 1847, he joined the Church of Rome. In 1850, he was admitted into the Congregation of the Oratory at Birmingham, where he has since remained. He has published several works in prose and poetry.
--Annotations of the Hymnal, Charles Hutchins, M.A. 1872… Go to person page >
My Starred Hymns
My FlexScores
My Hymnals
My Purchased Files