"When I Survey the Wondrous Cross"

But whatever was to my profit I now consider loss for the sake of Christ.
Paul, in his letter to the Philippians 3:7 (NIV)

"When I Survey the Wondrous Cross" is based upon this verse from one of today's scripture readings on the liturgical calendar. Today's broadcast of Sing for Joy, has two versions of this hymn. First, is the traditional melody, which is followed by one written by John Rutter, and performed by King's College Choir. (King's College Chapel pictured above.) I love almost everything by Rutter and King's College Choir, and this hymn doesn't disappoint. The Rutter version is about 2/3 of the way across the listening band on the Sing for Joy website if you're so inclined.

When I Survey the Wondrous Cross

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.

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.

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?

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.

(words by Isaac Watts)