HYMN: View Now the Cross with Ponderous Grief

Once again I found myself inspired by one of Pastor Anderson's sermons, this time his Good Friday sermon on John 19 for the Chief Service. He was talking about Good Friday piety: how some view the day with a somber tone while others view the day with great joy. The thought sent a kernel of an idea into my head, and this is what developed, with help from thoughts from his sermon and the readings for Easter Day. 

This one still needs some work, but it's a good start, and your help could make it even better. I think there is a stanza still missing, but I'm not sure quite what it is. 

Right now the tune is WINDHAM, which is the tune for the hymn "We Sing the Praise of Him Who Died," hymn 429 in Lutheran Service Book. Feedback is love.

View Now the Cross with Ponderous Grief

1. View now the cross with pond'rous grief;

View now the cross with radiant joy;

But see the cross with great relief.

Praise Christ, whose death did death destroy.

2. Behold the scandal of the cross!

See here the foolishness of God.

Look at Christ's hands by nails embossed

His torso striped by cruel rod.

3. See Him suspended, crucified,

His love a banner, on the tree

See Him, your Savior, glorified,

Hanging in mighty victory!

4. Sinless, the King with greatest care

Cries for forgiveness, mercy sweet,

For all whose sins have nailed Him there.

And then He dies, His work complete.

5. Mourn your own sin with woe and shame,

Putting the spotless Lamb to death.

Worship the Christ, who bears your blame,

Breathing for you His final breath.

6. View now the cross with pond'rous grief;

View now the cross with radiant joy;

But see the cross with great relief.

Praise Christ, whose death did death destroy.

Alan Kornacki, Jr., 1974

LM (88 88)

WINDHAM (LSB 429)

Good Friday; John 19