A new hymntune for Charles Wesley’s timeless text forms the basis of this choral anthem, which includes subtle quotes of the original hymntune. An orchestration is available from Beckenhorst Press, as well as a congregational songsheet for use in congregational singing.
Note: the first printing of this anthem includes a mistake in m.55. Tenor note on beat 3 should be a D (in unison with basses), not a high B. This has been corrected for future printings.
And can it be that I should gain
An interest in the Savior’s blood?
Died He for me, who caused His pain—
For me, who Him to death pursued?
Amazing love! How can it be,
That Thou, my God, shouldst die for me?
He left His Father’s throne above
So free, so infinite His grace—
Emptied Himself of all but love,
And bled for Adam’s helpless race:
’Tis mercy all, immense and free,
For O my God, it found out me!
’Tis mercy all, immense and free,
For O my God, it found out me!
No condemnation now I dread;
Jesus, and all in Him, is mine;
Alive in Him, my living Head,
And clothed in righteousness divine,
Bold I approach th’eternal throne,
And claim the crown, through Christ my own.
-Charles Wesley, 1738
Tags: Communion, Easter, Lent, Worship
Instrumentation: Piano