Lutheran Worship ‎#119

119. O Dearest Jesus, What Law Have You Broken

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 The sinless Son of God must die in sadness;
The sinful child of man may live in gladness;
We forfeited our lives yet are acquitted;
God is committed!

6 O wondrous love, whose depth no heart has sounded,
That brought you here, by foes and thieves surrounded,
Conquer my heart, make love its sole endeavor
Henceforth forever!

7 When, dearest Jesus, at your throne in heaven
To me the crown of joy at last is given,
Where sweetest hymns your saints forever raise you,
I too shall praise you!

Text Information

• First Line: O dearest Jesus, what law have you broken
• Title: O Dearest Jesus, What Law Have You Broken
• Translator: Catherine Winkworth, 1829-78 (alt.)
• Author: Johann Heermann, 1585-1647
• Meter: 11 11 11 5
• Language: English
• Publication Date: 1982
• Topic: Passion Week

Tune Information

• Name: HERZLIEBSTER JESU
• Composer: Johann Crüger, 1598-1662
• Meter: 11 11 11 5
• Key: g minor
• Copyright: Arrangement: Copyright 1982 Concordia Publishing House.