Classic Poem

I.

As near to Calvary I pass
Methinks I see a bloody cross,
Where a poor victim hangs;
His flesh with ragged irons tore,
His limbs all dress'd with purple gore,
Gasping in dying pangs.

II.

Surpriz'd the spectacle to see,
I ask'd who can this victim be,
In such exquisite pain?
Why thus consign'd to woes I cry'd?
" ' Tis I , " the bleeding GOD reply'd,
" To save a world from sin. "

III.

A GOD for rebel mortals dies!
How can it be, my soul replies!
What! Jesus die for me!
" Yes, saith the suff'ring Son of God,
" I give my life, I spill my blood,
" For thee, poor soul, for thee. "

IV.

Lord since thy life thou'st freely giv'n,
To bring my wretched soul to heav'n,
And bless me with thy love;
Then to thy feet, O GOD , I'll fall,
Give thee my life, my soul, my all,
To reign with thee above.

V.

All other lovers I'll adieu,
My dying lover I'll pursue,
And bless the slaughter'd Lamb;
My life, my strength, my voice and days,
I will devote in wisdom's ways,
And sound his bleeding fame.

VI.

And when this tott'ring life shall cease,
I'll leave these mortal climes in peace,
And soar to realms of light;
There where my heav'nly lover reigns,
I'll join to raise immortal strains,
All ravish'd with delight.