0423B AH HOLY JESUS (SONG OF THE WEEK)

This is a song I was trying to complete recording for Good Friday. It is a powerful hymn from Johann Heermann back in 1630, translated beautifully by Robert Bridges in 1897.  I hear it in my mind as a 5-part set of layers of counterpoint, with each stanza working with the others. An ensemble at CCU did the song live in concert, but I don't have a recording of it. 

Ah, holy Jesus, how did You so offend us

That sinful men condemn the one who would defend us?

You had the right to judge us all and to reject us

Protect us, Jesus.

Lo, the Good Shepherd for the sheep is offered

The slave has sinned and yet the son has suffered

So men are brought near bride of Him who bought her

Oh how He loves her

So who was guilty? Who brought this upon You?

Who did the treason? Who could be so untrue?

Am I surprised to find the traitor who denied You?

I crucified You.

For me, for me, kind Jesus was Your incarnation

Your bitter sorrow Your final obligation

Your bitter passion anguished death and final station

Were all for my salvation

I see kind Jesus that I could not repay You

But I could love You serve You and obey You

Think on Your pity remember Your love unswerving

Not my undeserving.