When I survey the wondrous cross
On which the Prince of glory died,
My richest gain I count but loss,
And pour contempt on all my pride.
Again, one of my favorite Easter Hymns. It embodies all of the awe and reverence I feel at that time of year. I love the arrangements that delve into the darker aspect of this piece and this arrangement does just that. But, then, at the end, as I always hope, there is a rise of power and majesty and we end in a major mode.
The Easter story is one of sorrow and love mingled down. Yes. But, because of this sorrow coupled with love, it is a story of glory and power. Jesus is not dead. He is alive. He overcame death so that we might live. And, we are forgiven. Forever. That is the story of Easter. The glorious hope of Easter.
One of my favorite hymns to play. I probably enjoy playing it more than anyone can possibly enjoy hearing it! Such is the "gift of music." I hope you enjoy this rendition....
This arrangement comes from Sunday Morning Companion, Arr by Victor Labenske, found here. More details can be found on the Project Page.
Words: Isaac Watts, Hymns and Spiritual Songs, 1707. Charles Wesley reportedly said he would give up all his other hymns to have written this one.
When I survey the wondrous cross
On which the Prince of glory died,
My richest gain I count but loss,
And pour contempt on all my pride.
Forbid it, Lord, that I should boast,
Save in the death of Christ my God!
All the vain things that charm me most,
I sacrifice them to His blood.
See from His head, His hands, His feet,
Sorrow and love flow mingled down!
Did e’er such love and sorrow meet,
Or thorns compose so rich a crown?
His dying crimson, like a robe,
Spreads o’er His body on the tree;
Then I am dead to all the globe,
And all the globe is dead to me.
Were the whole realm of nature mine,
That were a present far too small;
Love so amazing, so divine,
Demands my soul, my life, my all.
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