In Silent Pain the Eternal Son

Today's Bible reading from the LSB daily lectionary (John 19:1-22) gives us another opportunity to meditate upon the crucifixion of our Lord on Calvary.  The text, "In Silent Pain the Eternal Son" was written by Christopher M. Idle (b. 1938) and was included in the synodical hymn resource, Hymnal Supplement 98.  In both HS98 and in Lutheran Service Book, the text is wed to the tune REALITY by John L. Bell (b. 1949).  The images in stanza three are particularly striking.

1.  In silent pain the_eternal Son

        Hangs derelict and still;

     In darkened day His work is done,

        Fulfilled, His Father's will.

     Uplifted for the world to see

     He hangs in strangest victory,

     For in His body on the tree

        He carries all our ill.

2.  He died that we might die to sin

        And live for righteousness;

     The earth is stained to make us clean

        And bring us into peace.

     For peace He came and met its cost;

     He gave Himself to save the lost;

     He loved us to the uttermost

        And paid for our release.

3.  For strife He came, to bring a sword,

        The truth to end all lies;

     To rule in us, our patient Lord,

        Until all evil dies:

     For in His hand He holds the stars,

     His voice shall speak to end our wars,

     And those who love Him see His scars

        And look into His eyes.