“I count all things but loss for the excellency of the knowledge of Christ Jesus my Lord.”
Philippians 3:8 (L.M. Bodmin)
I heard the Father’s cry,
Who turns away from sin:
He shuts the gates, and those who try
Can never enter in.
Then heaven is barred to me,
My fancied merit, loss:
My woeful lot – where can I flee
And rid my soul of dross?
How shall I find a way
To come to God above;
When all my efforts lead astray,
My poor soul pants for love?
‘Tis then I see His grace,
Revealing mercy’s part;
Then all my sin and life’s disgrace
I lay on Jesus’ heart.
O Saviour now so kind,
What heart of love is Thine!
For all my sin and stain I find
On Christ the King divine.
What can I say, my Lord?
What tongue can ever tell?
The gift of grace does now afford
A path that passes hell.
My Saviour’s merit pleads
A place for me to stand;
An advocate who intercedes;
My Hope, at God’s right hand.
Who is this Friend I need,
Who shed His blood for me?
Behold the Christ, whose death and deed
Forgive eternally!
What does He show to God
That satisfies His heart,
That stems His wrath, and stays His rod,
And bids me not depart?
It is His righteousness,
Displayed in Christ His Son,
Has granted me this blessedness,
That Christ alone has won.
Then I shall praise His name
With songs that come from Him;
He granted me a heart aflame
That sin can never dim.
Rejoice, my soul, rejoice!
O glorious Trinity,
My cup is full, and fills my voice
With gratitude to Thee.
