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.