A HYMN FOR TODAY

Ah, holy Jesus, how have You offended,
That mortal judgment has on You descended?
By foes derided, by Your own rejected,
O most afflicted.

Who was the guilty? Who brought this upon You?
It is my treason, Lord, that has undone You.
‘Twas I, Lord Jesus, I it was denied You;
I crucified You.

Lo, the Good Shepherd for the sheep is offered;
The slave has sinned, and yet the Son has suffered
For my atonement, though I nothing heeded,
God interceded.

For me, kind Jesus, was Your incarnation,
Your mortal sorrow and Your life’s oblation,
Your death of anguish and Your bitter passion,
For my salvation.

Therefore, dear Jesus, since I cannot pay You,
I do adore You, and will ever pray You,
Think on Your pity and Your love unswerving,
Not my deserving.

11.11.11.5 – Johann Heermann, 1630                                                                                                       trans. Robert S. Bridges, 1899                                                                                                          Tune: HERZLIEBSTER JESU – Johann Crueger, 1640                                                                            #228 in Psalms, Hymns, and Spiritual Songs, 2012