1 

O dearest Lord, what law hast Thou e'er broken

That such sharp sentence should on Thee be spoken?

Of what misdeed hast Thou to make confession —

            What dark transgression?

 2 

They crown Thy head with thorns, they smite, they scourge Thee;

With cruel mockings to the cross they urge Thee;

They give Thee gall to drink, they still decry Thee;

            They crucify Thee.

 3 

What punishment so strange is suffered yonder?

The shepherd dies for sheep that loved to wander;

The Master pays the debt His servants owe Him,

            Who would not know Him.

 4 

The sinless Son of God must die in sadness;

The sinful child of man may live in gladness;

Man forfeited His life and is acquitted —

            God is committed.

 5 

O mighty King, no time can dim Thy glory!

How shall I spread abroad Thy wondrous story?

How shall I find some worthy gift to proffer?

            What dare I offer?

 6 

I'll think upon Thy mercy without ceasing;

That earth's vain joys no more to me be pleasing;

To do Thy will shall be my sole endeavor

            Henceforth forever.