The New Century Hymnal ‎#191

191. Before Your Cross, O Jesus

1 Before your cross, O Jesus,
our lives are judged today;
the meaning of our eager strife
is tested by your way.
Across our restless living
the light streams from your cross,
and by its clear, revealing beams
we measure gain and loss.

2 The hopes that lead us onward,
the fears that hold us back,
our will to dare great things for God,
the courage that we lack,
The faith we keep in goodness,
our love, as low or pure,
on all, the judgment of the cross
falls steady, clear, and sure.

3 Yet humbly, in our striving,
we rise to face its test.
We crave the power to do your will
as once you did it best.
On us let now the healing
of your great Spirit fall,
and make us brave and full of joy
to answer to your call.

Text Information

• First Line: Before your cross, O Jesus
• Title: Before Your Cross, O Jesus
• Author: Ferdinand Q. Blanchard (1929, alt.)
• Meter: 7.6.8.6.8.6.8.6.
• Language: English
• Publication Date: 1995
• Scripture:
  Mark 8:34
  ;
  Philippians 3:7-10
  ;
  Philippians 1:27
  ;
  Galatians 6:14
• Topic: Discipleship; Gospel Call and Response; Lent; Year A: Proper 17; Year B: Lent 5; Year B: Proper 19; Year C: Lent 5

Tune Information

• Name: ST. CHRISTOPHER
• Composer: Frederick C. Maker (1881)
• Meter: 7.6.8.6.8.6.8.6.
• Key: D Major