Forgive Them, O My Father

Verse 1

'Forgive them, O my Father, they know not what they do:' the Saviour spoke in anguish, as the sharp nails went through.

Verse 2

No word of anger spake he to them that shed his blood, but prayer and tenderest pity large as the love of God.

Verse 3

For me was that compassion, for me that tender care; I need his wide forgiveness as much as any there.

Verse 4

It was my pride and hardness that hung Him on the tree; those cruel nails, O Saviour, were driven in by me.

Verse 5

And often I have slighted thy gentle voice that chid: forgive me too, Lord Jesus; I knew not what I did.

Verse 6

O depth of sweet compassion! O love divine and true! Save thou the souls that slight thee, and know not what they do.