He Died for Me

I wrote this on Good Friday, 2005

He Died for Me

I didn't know how He died for me
On the cross at Calvary.
Sinners had placed Him there, I could see.
He died for them, but not for me.
Jesus, how did death on that tree
Pay my debts and set me free?
Tell me, Lord, I want to know--
How all my sins could have hurt you so.

Pictures then came to me of a man--
Chased by sin, he desperately ran
Down the dark avenue without light
Hopeless and fearful through the night.
Jeers and laughter jabbed as a spear.
"You are MINE," Sin roared with a sneer.
Tell me Lord, I want to know--
How all my sins could have hurt you so.

Stumbling and breathless, he raced with dread,
Regretting things he'd done and said.
Frantic and terrified in the dark,
Eyes full of tears perceived a spark.
Loving Brightness shone from afar,
Jesus, Lord, the Morning Star.
Tell me Lord, I think I know--
How all my sins could have hurt you so.

Arms full of mercy reached to embrace.
Radiant Love shone from His Face.
In arms of Safety, I found my Lord,
But then came Satan with his sword:
"Wages for the sin must be paid!"
Jesus turned Himself to the blade.
Oh, my God, at last I know--
How all my sins could have hurt you so.

Jesus you gave your life, for my own.
Bloodied for the sins that I've sown.
Covered in blood, I grieved, sorrow worn.
Gently, He touched me, "Do not mourn.
Yes, I gave my life for you,
Now, go live your life for me.
You are MINE! I'm glad you know--
How all your sins could have hurt me so."

Patricia Ragan 2005