I Nailed Him on the Cross

In evil long I took delight

Unawed by shame or fear;

Till a new object struck my sight

And Stopped my wild career.

I saw one hanging on a tree

In agonies and blood;

Who fixed his languid eyes on me

As near his cross I stood.

Sure never till my latest breath

Can I forget that look;

It seemed to charge me with his death

Though not a word he spoke.

My conscience felt and owned the guilt

And plunged me in despair;

I saw my sins his blood had split

And helped to nail him there.

Alas, I knew not what I did

But now my tears are vain;

Where shall my trembling soul be hid?

For I the Lord have slain.

A second look he gave which said

"I freely all forgive;

This blood is for thy ransom paid

I died that thou mayest live."

Thus while his death my sin displays

In all its blackest hue;

Such is the mystery of grace,

It seals my pardon too.

With pleasing grief and mourning joy

My spirit now is filled;

That I should such a life destroy

Yet live by him I killed.

John Newton

Father, may your word continue to convict, transform and empower me. That may the Gospel be the sound track of my day. I pray for a Cross-Centered life. Rooted in the Truth, more than merely seeking experiences with You. I pray for a conviction and commitment that will never falter, for I am saved only by Grace through Faith. Let Thine be the Glory, forever.