Friday, March 22, 2024  

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Today's Hymn
“O Sacred Head, Now Wounded”

What language shall I borrow
to thank thee, dearest friend,
for this thy dying sorrow,
thy pity without end?
O make me thine forever;
and should I fainting be,
Lord, let me never, never
outlive my love to thee.

translation by James Waddell Alexander (1830)
Hymn 221, Glory to God
verse 3

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Reflection

“What language shall I borrow” has always struck me as an interesting turn of phrase. Language is something we acquire early, and once we internalize it, it is ours forever. It’s an essential part of how we think and engage with others as well as how we shape our worldview. And how we choose to use it allows us to express our emotions and our thoughts, frame our personalities, and communicate with others.

Arnulf of Leuven, the author of these lyrics, was a French abbot and is clearly gifted at writing. Yet he feels compelled to reach beyond his own ability with words to find something deeper to express his gratitude for Christ’s sacrifice for us. Indeed, throughout the hymn, he recognizes that although humans are the transgressors, Christ is the one who feels the pain and accepts the responsibility of atoning for our sins. Not only is the writer’s language, but also his salvation, borrowed from God.

Thus his — and our — only appropriate response is to become Christ’s, to live our love in gratitude for this amazing gift, the gift of sacrifice and atonement.

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Prayer
Holy and loving God, words are not enough to express our thanks for sending your Son to atone for our sins. Help us to keep the language of gratitude in our hearts and to live out our love in service to you and others. In your name. Amen.

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Written by Lisa Stracks, Member of Fourth Presbyterian Church

Reflection and Prayer © Fourth Presbyterian Church

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