Thursday, March 20, 2008

How Deep the Father's Love For Us

How deep the Father's love for us,
How vast beyond all measure,
That He should give his only Son
To make a wretch His treasure.
How great the pain of searing loss;
The Father turns His face away
As wounds which mar the Chosen One
Bring many saints to glory.

Behold the Man upon a cross,
My sin upon His shoulders.
Ashamed, I hear my mocking voice
Call out among the scoffers.
It was my sin that held Him there
Until it was accomplished;
His dying breath has brought me life.
I know that it is finished.

I will not boast of anything;
No gifts, no power, no wisdom.
But I will boast in Jesus Christ,
His death and resurrection.
Why should I gain from His reward?
I cannot give an answer.
But this I know with all my heart:
His wounds have paid my ransom.

-Stuart Townend, 1995-

2 comments:

Bellezza said...

Oh, this is so wonderful! Is it a song, or 'just' a poem? It's really nice to meet you. Thank you for stopping by my blog today; I can see we have a lot of common in our faith, love of children and literature. Plus, I live in Illinois as well. Have a blessed Easter!

Joyce said...

Hello, Bellezza,
It's a song- a really beautiful one. Stuart Townend is writing hymns in the UK that are just stunning. Some have called him the new Isaac Watts. They have a sort of contemporary Celtic feel, but are very much singable and hymn-like. I really believe they bridge the gap between traditional hymns and the more rock-style contemporary worship music. Another one I just love is Called "In Christ Alone". Sometime I will post those words as well, because they are an amazing statement of faith.