Alas, dear Lord, what law then hast Thou broken

Verse 1

O dearest Jesus, what law have you broken that such sharp sentence should on you be spoken? Of what great crime have you to make confession, what dark transgression?

Verse 2

They crown your head with thorns, they smite, they scourge you; with cruel mockings to the cross they urge you; they give you gall to drink, they still decry you; they crucify you.

Verse 3

Whence come these sorrows, whence this mortal anguish? It is my sins for which you, Lord, must languish; yes, all the wrath, the woe that you inherit, this I do merit.

Verse 4

What punishment so strange is suffered yonder! The Shepherd dies for sheep that loved to wander; the Master pays the debt his servants owe him, who would not know him.

Verse 5

The sinless Son of God must die in sadness, the sinful child of man may live in gladness; we forfeited our lives, yet are acquitted; God is committed.

Verse 6

I’ll think upon your mercy without ceasing, that earth’s vain joys to me no more be pleasing; to do your will shall be my sole endeavor henceforth forever.

Verse 7

And when, dear Lord, before your throne in heaven to me the crown of joy at last is given, where sweetest hymns your saints forever raise you, I too shall praise you.