Last Sunday our choir anthem was “When I Survey the Wondrous Cross.” As I sang these old, familiar words the message sunk deeper into my heart. A commentary could be written on each line. Read the poem slowly and meditate on Mr. Watts’ hymn.
1. 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.
The Prince of glory died for me. The most extravagant, luxurious item that I could ever own could not match the wealth of His sacrifice.
2. 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.
Galatians 6:14. Am I willing to sacrifice the empty things of earth for the fulness of His Death? I confess there are many things that charm me. Have they become more precious than His blood?
3. 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?
There has never been a time nor ever will be when sorrow and love come together like this. Infinite sorrow and perfect love combined. The crown that mocked becomes the symbol of majesty.
4. 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.
Here is the sober but joyful challenge. If I had everything there was to have in all its immensity it would be infinitely too little to give back. In stead this love, fully understood, naturally demands all my soul, all my life, all my all.
May the Cross always have an attraction and power in my life.
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