Hymn of the Week: And Can It Be?

Everyone's heard of John Wesley, the Methodist preacher, but not as many people are familiar with his brother Charles. Charles Wesley was one of my favorite hymn writers (probably his most well-known song is "Hark, the Herald Angels Sing"), and this is my favorite of his hymns. I've highlighted the parts I like best.

And can it be that I should gain

an interest in my Savior's love?

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?

'Tis mystery all! the Immortal dies--

who can explore His strange design?

In vain the firstborn seraph tries

to sound the depths of love divine.

'Tis mercy all! let earth adore,

let angel minds inquire no more.

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!

Long my imprisoned spirit lay

fast-bound in sin and nature's night.

Mine eye diffused a quickening ray;

I woke, the dungeon filled with light.

My chains fell off, my heart was free;

I rose, went forth and followed Thee.

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 the eternal throne

and claim the crown through Christ, my own.

In order to fully appreciate this beautiful hymn of praise, you have to hear it. (The audio and video are out of sync, but you can still enjoy the gorgeous music.)