1 O dearest Lord, what law hast Thou e'er broken
That such sharp sentence should on Thee be spoken?
2 They crown Thy head with thorns, they smite, they scourge Thee;
With cruel mockings to the cross they urge Thee;
3 What punishment so strange is suffered yonder?
The shepherd dies for sheep that loved to wander;
4 The sinless Son of God must die in sadness;
The sinful child of man may live in gladness;
5 O mighty King, no time can dim Thy glory!
How shall I spread abroad Thy wondrous story?
6 I'll think upon Thy mercy without ceasing;
That earth's vain joys no more to me be pleasing;