A Vision of Calvary

When I look upon his precious, holy face
I remember the gift of his love and grace.
On the cross, for me, he laid outstretched,
Wounded and dying, I never shall forget!

Thirty nine lashed were placed upon his back
As it tore open his flesh when it attacked.
Each stripe that he'd taken was born for me
That healing would come and I'd be set free.

His flesh made raw from scourgings and beatings
And he knew that, soon, his life would be fleeting.
I realized his love was given with great cost
As I viewed him hanging there on that old cross.

Each drop of blood that flowed from his precious side
He had shed for me as his church, his holy bride.
His body cried out, "Free me from this great pain!"
But his faith ne'er faltered, nor did it e'en wane.

He cried out for water but none came to him
To free his body from the thirst crying out 'thin.
His mouth parched and dry, what e'er could be worse
Than to have no water when he cried out in thirst!

There was no one for him to show compassion.
Just foul tasting vinegar to his mouth was giv'n.
But he was steadfast and strong through all his pain
And his heart cried out 'thin him, spiritual gain!

All that was needed to make his agony subside
Was to whisper to the angels and they'd rush to his side.
But he called not one of them, he did not even speak.
Though, from loss of blood, his body grew quite weak.

As he was hanging there with excruciating pain
He ne'er thought of himself but of thieves that came.
They were crucified, yes, one on each of his sides
One asked to be remembered when he'd soon die.

He asked to be taken with him into paradise
And Christ said that he would, that's what he replied.
Then his life was taken from his tender young body.
He was steadfast and strong for everybody.

Then bowing his head, closing his tear-stained eyes,
I beheld him hanging there as I began to cry.
Why would he do this for people such as us?
Then I knew it was because of his great love?

And as I beheld his precious, martyred face
I knew it was because of God's amazing grace.
But… suddenly… I realized that it was me!
I…I was the one who sent him to Calvary!

Through all of his agony and his despair
I knew I 'as the one who had placed him there!
Fighting back the tears as I looked up at him
His blood dripped on me, washing away my sin.