» When I die

When I die

Rembrandt Raising 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.

Isaac Watts, 1707

When I die, the funeral will start with this hymn.

From memory, I think Rembrandt painted his own face on the soldier crucifying Christ.

3 Responses to “When I die” »»

  1. Comment by Steve Hall | 04/14/06 at 8:25 pm

    If I’m still alive I’ll come and I’ll sing it for you. Great easter reflections – thanks.

  2. Comment by Neil Cole | 04/15/06 at 4:10 am

    Hey Steve, yes you are right, that is a self portraight by Rembrandt raising our Lord up on the cross. He definitely understood the redemption of the cross. This is a blend of his two favorite themes: Self portaights and Biblical accounts.

  3. Comment by Steve | 04/15/06 at 9:54 am

    Steve, offer accepted as long as you realise Van Morrison will be sining Be thou my vision as they carry the coffin out.

    Neil, art historian as well as movement leader! Impressive.

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