Been thinking about hymns lately. I love ‘em. This past week being Holy Week, I’ve had a few going ’round in my head. I thought I’d post a few lyrics here.

Ever heard of the Phos Hilaron? Literally, “Hilarious Light”, it is the oldest recorded Christian hymn. Written originally in Greek, here’s a modern translation:

Hail, gladdening Light, of His pure glory poured
Who is th’immortal Father, heavenly, blest,
Holiest of Holies – Jesu Christ our Lord!

Now we are come to the sun’s hour of rest;
The lights of evening round us shine;
We hymn the Father, Son, and Holy Spirit divine!

Worthiest art Thou at all times to be sung
With undefiled tongue,
Son of our God, giver of life, alone:
Therefore in all the world Thy glories, Lord, they own. Amen.

One of my favorite hymns for Good Friday:

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 sons 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 in 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

Been humming this little one around the house this week:

Jesus, all for Jesus / All I am and have and ever hope to be / Jesus, all for Jesus / All I am and have and ever hope to be

All of my ambitions, hopes and plans / I surrender these into Your hands / All of my ambitions, hopes and plans / I surrender these into Your hands

For it’s only in Your will that I am free / For it’s only in Your will that I am free.