Tag: christianity

Violetta

James HoganLeave a comment

Happy Saturday!! I’m here at Beans Cafe – already had my breakfast an hour ago or so, and now I have my Earl Grey sitting in front of me and I thought – no better time to write a bit! I wanted to begin this morning by something I’ve been reading – thought it was simply wonderful and I couldn’t not share. I’ve been reading in Acts lately. This is such a fantastic book, one that I always enjoy reading, because the power and Spirit of God is working mightily in the early church – and seeing how God works through His people is something to behold. So encouraging. And so I come to Acts chapter ten today. This is one of the first recorded instances of a Jew preaching to a Gentile audience. Shocking!! So God calls Peter to go and share His gospel with Cornelius. Peter obeys God. Peter goes to the house of a non-Jew, and there – he preaches the Word of God. This is truly remarkable. It’s a bit hard to convey how earth-shattering this moment is. But for a Jew who had considered Gentiles to be implacable enemies of God and totally undeserving of any grace, the fact that Peter would share the gospel of God with ones such as these…this account is stunning. Let me just share Peter’s words, because I think they are far better than any words I could say! From Acts 10, verse 34 on –

Opening his mouth, Peter said:
“I most certainly understand now that God is not one to show partiality,
but in every nation the man who fears Him and does what is right is
welcome to Him. The word which He sent to the sons of Israel, preaching
peace through Jesus Christ(He is Lord of all) – you yourselves know
the thing which took place throughout all Judea, starting from Galilee, after the
baptism which John proclaimed. You know of Jesus of Nazareth,
how God anointed Him with the Holy Spirit and with power, and how He
went about doing good and healing all who were oppressed by the devil, for
God was with Him. We are witnesses of all the things He did both
in the land of the Jews and in Jerusalem. They also put Him to death by
hanging Him up on a cross. God raised Him up on the third day and granted
that He become visible, not to all the people, but to witnesses who were
chosen beforehand by God, that is, to us who ate and drank with Him after He
arose from the dead. And He ordered us to preach to the people, and
solemnly to testify that this is the One who has been appointed by God as
Judge of the living and the dead. Of Him all the prophets bear witness that
through His name everyone who believes in Him receives forgiveness of sins.”

And this is the gospel of God. Love it. And just the fact that this inaugurates the preaching of the gospel of God to all peoples makes it even more awesome. Right after Peter says the above words, the Spirit falls upon all who were listening to His message and they believed and were baptised and were rejoicing and praising God. Hallelujah!

And now that I’ve written the above, I’m not sure what else I can write, but I suppose I can let you know that yes – I’m still settling in to Houston life! Me and Alex hit up the opera last night and well…it was quite good. Just because I don’t want to plagiarise myself – I’ll excerpt a review I wrote on another forum:

La Traviata dir. Enrique Carreon-Robledo. So, my first few weeks back in Houston, and I was able to get a ticket to see my very first opera! Background info – I’ve always said I never like opera, mostly because my only exposure to it has been random video clips or music on my iTunes that I’ve just..never found enjoyable. So I said yes to my friend’s invite, but went in expecting not to like this. Instead…the only word I could think of to describe it at the time – magnificent.

I didn’t know the story ahead of time, and so watched it with my heart in my mouth, wondering what was going to happen – and how it would end. The venue was a small theatre(probably less than 200 people, but we were at full capacity), and somehow me and my friend had scored front row tickets. Not quite ideal, since the translation screen was a bit hard to see from our angle, but in actuality, this was perfect. Being front row(touching the stage with my feet!!), I felt part of the performance – totally enthralled by it. I didn’t always know the exact words they were saying, but it didn’t even matter. All of the talent was simply top-notch. I was stunned by how good the performance was – Violetta was simply amazing – and I was in love with the way her voice spiraled and dueled with the orchestra. Magnificent.

I really shouldn’t make this review any longer, but just know that my opinion of the opera has been changed. I think I’m going to have to see more. I also really loved the intimate nature of the venue – afterwards, some of the cast came down to greet us – I really should have gone up and thanked them for their performance, but was too shy! As Americans are wont to do, we gave a standing ovation as well. I thought it was deserved.

So there you go – magnificent. Beautiful. I really should make a point to go to more fine art performances, whether it be music or theater. My problem is, I never like to go to things like this alone, but I simply will have to find people to come with me!! Anyways, it was great fun being with Alex again, and enjoying a fine performance…I can’t complain, even if it was a late Friday night!

And I don’t think I wrote about last weekend – I spent Saturday night last week at Abby and Claire and Charlotte’s house! It was grand – they threw a “Welcome back to America” party – slash game night. Really, just a good excuse for a party. I actually didn’t know half the people there, but that wasn’t a bad thing. I also saw again some people I haven’t seen in over three years! So we played lots of games(Signs, Balderdash, etc…) and laughed heaps, and enjoyed quality time together. I have good friends, what can I say? God is good to me. Always.

And tonight I’ll be going to the Jacobs for dinner! Will be awesome – was so great seeing them this past Sunday – and I’ve not been to their house in over three years! So looking forward to a good evening there(I’m quite positive there will be some ping-pong played, definitely ready for that!).

I could definitely write more, but I have suspicions this post is quite long enough as it is. Enjoy and God bless you all, my friends. Just know that despite my sometimes sighs as I think back on my time in Scotland and my dear friends there, I have no doubt that God is with me and leading me in every step I take. His Word is indeed a lamp unto my feet and a light to my path. He takes me by the hand when I stumble and leads me in paths everlasting. So I have no fear, no worries. Well actually, I do at times when my flesh is weak and feeble, but then my Lord reminds me that He is the one who holds my hand. Even youths may grow tired and weary, but those who wait on the Lord will gain new strength and will mount up on wings like eagles…y’all, like eagles! So let us – like eagles – soar on the wings of the dawn and look to the heavens, where Jesus sits at the right hand of God Himself. When we fret and sigh at the miseries of this world, look to Jesus and remember that He is Lord and He is God. Worship Him, and all else fades away like the early-morning fog into the grey of the sea with the rising of the sun…

Peace, my friends.

Glorious

James HoganLeave a comment

And now I sit at work with my coffee, a few minutes before eight. Time to start work soon, but I wanted to write just a bit. I’ve been meaning to write more for a while now, but I simply have no time!! I’ve been spending all my free time with my dear friends. And this is not a bad thing at all.

And as I begin my final day here in Aberdeen, I do not know what to say. Other than I must and shall praise my God for all that He has given to me. Praise Him with great praise!!

I think on the past few days and all the glorious times contained therein. A most lovely dinner at Lairhillock with John and Ruth – friends eternal. Hanging out with John on Friday night, watching Batman(oh no, now Batman music is stuck in my head…) and just relaxing together. Glorious.

Sunday. Would take far too long to describe now, but being in my church. Being with my family. Saying farewell, but never forever. Praying and thanking our God and Father for his boundless blessings to us. Worshipping together and hearing the Word of God preached. Saying goodbye to far too many dear friends and being crushed by the kindnesses and encouraging words lavished upon me. Yesterday stopping by Chris and Jo’s for one last cuppa and chat. Oh how I’ll miss them. Then being with John and Andrew Wilson last night, enjoying some classic frozen pizzas(baked in our shiny oven – finally clean after what John aptly named the Great Calsayseat Oven Cleaning Debacle of 2013!).

And I’m just writing what I’ve been doing, not what I’m feeling. Because I don’t quite want to delve into my emotions at the moment, but suffice it to say that I feel my heart swirling in a maelstrom of love and longing and joy. So so happy to be going back to America – to see my family!! So so sad to leave so many friends back here. But what can I say? I am blessed. I am blessed.

And today, driving to work for the last time, listening to Classic FM and watching the blustery skies and the brilliant sea flash by as I pondered these last few beautiful years…

And now, it’s time to go and take cakes out to the guys in the shop, say my farewell to them!

Peace, my friends. Always.

Love, Unbounded

James HoganLeave a comment

Hello my friends!!

This night, I am sleepy and thus cannot write as much as I would like. I’m also hungry and should probably make dinner at some point! Frozen pizza? Yes.

But a few words before I do turn the oven on. This weekend I’ve been having a most marvelous time in Northern Ireland! And would that I had all the time in the world to properly do it justice, but alas, the clock ticks ever on. And my heart is too full.

I really cannot chronicle this trip as it deserves. Maybe I’ll write more later, when my mind is less sleepy and my heart is ready to give up its song? Maybe. But now – just know that this weekend was beautiful. Seeing my dear friend Zara again and spending time with her and her family…climbing mountains and seeing the beauty of the earth laid before my feet and knowing how our God cares for each and everyone one of us as He looks out upon His earth…exploring the grand north coast and marveling at the beauty of the waves of the sea crashing against the cliffs jutting out into the ocean proud…eating lunch in the burning sunshine and luxuriating in the goodness of our God in giving us far more than we deserve…talking of the majesties of our God’s staggering creation and worshiping our God in word and prayer and song…and being with friends who remind me what a great God we serve, one who watches out for us and cares for us and holds us close to Himself. Always. And so.

I was right, I really can’t adequately write about this weekend, at least not tonight.

Maybe tomorrow. For now, simply think on the love of God. Think on Him who loved us when we were but sinners – and decided to save us from his terrible and righteous wrath. Think on Jesus – Him who made the universe – the glorious stars above and the swift seas and green fields below. Think on Him who made us His own. This is our God. Remember this, my friends.

Untitled

James HoganLeave a comment

Well, I can’t think of a title for this post yet, but John has given me instructions to just go ahead and write something(instead of stare at the glowing blank screen!) and worry about the title later. That is sound advice, so write I shall!

It’s Sunday evening, and I could ponder the upcoming work week. Or I could think on the awesomeness that has taken past this weekend. Yes. That sounds much better. And so I think of yesterday, waking up around 8AM and feeling exhausted(pretty much entirely due to playing Street Fighter II with John until far too late the night before. Yes, it stole our sleep. But WE WERE VICTORIOUS. Take that, M. Bison). Right, so waking up yesterday morning…walking down George St and grabbing a choc doughnut from Thain’s on the way to Books and Beans. Spending a delightful morning there, first reading and enjoying my mocha and eventually enjoying a good lunch with Rebecca!

And then the rest of the day – came back here and spent most of the afternoon making chocolate chip cookies! I was in a rare baking mood and could not let that go to waste. So watched National Treasure and made heaps of chocolate chip cookies. If I say so myself, they were pretty delicious. Of course, me and John tested the dough sufficiently beforehand.

Now, after spending hours baking – me and John made our way to Chris and Jo’s for…my leaving party!! Thankfully, while it was my leaving party, I was also very conscious that I’d see (pretty much) everyone again, so it wasn’t too sad. I loved walking up to their door and seeing a sign posted there, reading in Elven script, “No Admittance Except on Party Business”. Classic. (And sorry if you don’t get that – Lord of the Rings reference).

So yeah, party time!! Oh what a lovely time it was! There were plenty of delectable treats and some quite delicious Tokaji(thanks Chris and Jo and Aiysha!!) and there were friends aplenty and conversation flowed on and on into the night. No tears. Not yet. And I simply enjoyed being with my friends. A night of joy – a night of love. What have I done to deserve such dear friends and close companions? I know not – but I do know this – my God has blessed me exceedingly more than I could ever have hoped or dreamed. My God has been good to me. And as I think on this, on how my God has given me good things – this causes my spirit to rise and soar and my hopes for the future flare bright as I think that the God that has carried me thus far will not now let me slip through the cracks of time. My God will continue to be with me, even in that far-off land of Houston! I need fear not.

And seriously now! How much am I going to write this night!? I must rein in my fingers now. But let me spend a few moments on today. After church this morning, came back and enjoyed a bit of time in the garden. Sadly, the sun spent most of the time being a tease and hiding behind the clouds, but I still got some quality reading time! Eventually, it got a little too cold, so I came in and chilled in the lounge with John.

And then this evening back at Gilc we heard an epic sermon on Jonah from Dominic. I don’t think epic is really the right word, but my mind is a bit too frazzled now to come up with a better. Anyway, he preached on God being the God of second chances(and third and fourth…and five hundred and sixty fifth…) and how despite all of Jonah’s flaws and issues(he was not exactly a model citizen, what with his prejudices and lack of compassion!), God still used him to do his work. Think on us – we with our rebellious natures and wayward souls…God loves us all the same. And our God and Father turns our eyes and hearts back to Him and gives us missions to perform. We may mess up at times. Ok, we will mess up all the time. But God – He with His everlasting lovingkindnesses – continually renews our hearts and points us in the way we should go. So if you are feeling a bit far from God right now – think on His goodness. Think on His love. Think of Christ. Think of these things and let your heart be open to the love of God – thank our Father for all the many blessings we receive. Each and every day. Even now, I sit on this couch in comfort(and in darkness – not really sure why we haven’t turned the lights on yet. Hm). I have a warm cup of coffee sitting next to me. I have my Bible on my lap. These are all good things. These are all from God. The God who is good. The God who gives us second chances. The God who loves us so.

And now – this is much more than I meant to be writing! But I shall let it stand. I am going to read a bit more tonight – maybe write a bit more too. We shall see.

Farewell my friends!!

(Oh wait, I need a title now. Hm. Oh whatever)

Peace!

Books and Beans

James HoganLeave a comment

Third update in three days, what!! Just popping in to say hello to you all this fine Saturday morning. It’s a bit grey and dreary outside(and not warm at all – where did summer go?) but that is no matter. I’m inside and enjoying my coffee this day. Just spent a few hours cleaning out my computer and doing random maintenance tasks on it. It may be going on six years old, but that doesn’t mean I’m not going to not take care of it. May it last another six! (Ok, that’s extremely doubtful)

Anyways, also enjoyed some sweet Psalms this morning(Psalms 9 and 10 – go read them!) And now before I go get my lunch, think I’m going to finish my mocha and read a letter from a dear friend. And after that, who knows? Should probably go home and do some packing. We shall see. But in all these worldly things I do, let I remember the One who made this world and all it contains. As I go throughout this day and rejoice in the wonderful gifts I have received, may I think on Jesus and the wonder of knowing Him. May I meditate on His beauty. May I rest in His love. May I ponder on all He is and was and ever shall be! And I pray that you all may know the joy I have in knowing my Jesus and my God. Peace, my friends – always.

Now, it is more coffee time. I think I shall be bad and go order another mocha. Mine here is cold. So gonna hop downstairs and get that and then retreat back up here and enjoy another hour here enjoying the beautiful music floating through the air and the comfortable sounds of people talking about their days and the reading I have in front of me. Farewell, yo.

Ariel

James HoganLeave a comment

Just going to write a few words this afternoon – don’t feel in much of a writing mood, to be honest! But as it is Saturday, thought I couldn’t just leave this page blank. Just got done doing some cleaning around the flat – vacuuming, laundry, etc. Also threw a bunch of old papers out in preparation for upcoming move(current date is set in September – about a month to go here in Scotland). Now, sipping my coffee and debating on whether I want to go out in the garden to sit and read or not. The weather is a bit inconstant, fluctuating between sun and clouds. We shall see. Anyways, for now I write!

This past week’s been another busy week, so having a day of rest today is just oh so lovely. And this morning got to catch up with Jackie at Books and Beans – fantastic! First time I’ve seen her in a while – as always, awesome chat.

And now I sit and ponder on the words I’ve just read in Isaiah – frightening and terrifying and glorious. The judgment of God sits heavy upon the land of Israel(and yea, even the whole earth). It is terrible to think of us, the clay who rebels against our Maker. And we think we know better and we think we are gods. And we are as nothing. We are but dust. And yet we rage.

But then we come to these beautiful words!

Is it not yet just a little while before Lebanon will be turned into a fertile field,
and the fertile field will be considered as a forest?
On that day the deaf will hear words out of a book,
and out of their gloom and darkness the eyes of the blind will see.
The afflicted also will increase their gladness in the LORD,
and the needy of mankind will rejoice in the Holy One of Israel. – Isaiah 29:17-19

And now I think I may go outside after all! Trying to figure out what to read though – Lord of the Rings is my normal outside-reading book and I finished it yesterday. Oh such a good book!

Before I do go outside and enjoy the sun…I leave you with my latest CD, “The Homestretch II”:

1. Let There Be – Gungor
2. Build Your Kingdom Here – Rend Collective
3. In Your Sleep – Andrew Belle
4. Lover of the Light – Mumford and Sons
5. Maybe They’re On To Us – Needtobreathe
6. Hello Again – Lost Prophets
7. Taikatalvi – Nightwish
8. Storytime – Nightwish
9. Stars – Philip Quast – Les Mis
10. Night Castle – Trans-Siberian Orchestra
11. Butterflies and Hurricanes – Muse
12. The Scientist – Coldplay
13. Never Grow Up – Taylor Swift
14. Make My Life a Prayer to You – Keith Green
15. War – Trip Lee
16. It is Well with my Soul – Bob Kauflin
17. This is Not the End – Gungor
18. Finish the Fight – Martin O Donnell – Halo 3

Now – time for garden and sun and being with my Lord.

Peace, my friends – and much love!

The Homestretch II

James HoganLeave a comment

Good morning, my friends! I thought I should write a few words this morning/afternoon, simply because I’m at Books and Beans and my computer is on and there’s really no good reason why I shouldn’t write. I got up this morning and after enjoying my walk into town, stopped at the bank and then came here for my morning mocha. Mm…it’s now sort of cold, but I’m still drinking it anyway. Soon enough I shall have lunch and make my way back to the flat, but for now, just enjoying reading and coffee time.

And the real reason I stared writing this was because I wanted to say that I shall soon be moving back to Houston. Yep, my time in Scotland is drawing to an end and my return to America is soon at hand! This past Monday I got my official offer letter from the Houston office and on Wednesday I signed my contract. So either in August or September, I shall be leaving Aberdeen behind and settling in Houston. I don’t have an official moving date yet – and I haven’t decided where to live in Houston – but these details shall come. For now, I can simply confirm that I’m coming back to America, y’all.

How do I feel about this? Well, I don’t want to delve too deeply into my feelings, but the word I think I’ve used the most this past week in talking with people about this has been “surreal”. Truly, I’ve been here in Aberdeen almost three years now. And it is home. And I have dear friends here and I love living here. And yet. I do feel that God is leading me to go back to the States. I’ll be so much closer to my family(2 hour flight is far better than traveling over 12 hours!) and I also have good friends in Houston! So though I do not yet know all that is in store for me as I get ready to move, and although I do feel a bit sad at the prospect of leaving everyone here behind, I look forward to the new adventures that await me! God is taking me by the hand and He shall continue – as He always has! – to guide me for His glory. Never shall I fear that my heavenly Father shall leave or forsake me. Never shall I doubt my Father’s goodness to me. Always shall I remember the great things He has done for me – for me!

And now, I shall get ready for lunch – think I might change it up a bit today and get a soup(spicy broccoli and cherry tomato!) instead of my normal ham-and-cheese panini. I know, daring.

Peace, my friends. Peace and love.

Houses of Healing

James HoganLeave a comment

Quickly this Monday evening shall I write. As the strong evening sunlight pours through my bedroom window, I feel compelled to write a few words, though what they be I know not yet. I think I simply want to praise the Lord my God for all He has blessed me with – my heart is too full and to speak many words would dull the glory of the hour. Yet, let me put to page at least a few thoughts, dear readers.

This past weekend has been a riot of love and sun and glories bright – I think the Florida in my blood still burns strong, as I’ve simply been unable to resist soaking in every last droplet of sun this beautiful Aberdeen summer has to offer!

Saturday I spent a few hours downtown…but upon coming home, immediately me and John made camp outside to take advantage of the absolutely gorgeous afternoon that was afforded us. Laura from downstairs was out in the garden too, with her sister – so we spent the hours talking and enjoying the warmth and heat of the sun. Eventually, Laura decided fajitas was a good dinner plan, so I helped her cook and then we(of course!) ate out in the still e’er so delightful summer evening. Eventually me and John went back upstairs and decided to watch The Amazing Spiderman(his birthday gift to me!). We went to bed a bit late…but that was no matter.

Sunday – well, I’m already writing too many words here, but simply – breakfast with Graham and Joel and Ben at Graham and Tineke’s – not going to describe the beauty of the morning, but suffice it to say that it was. And worship with the people of God in church. As always glorious. And when me and John came home, I decided once again – time must be spent in the garden! So while John cooked inside(keeping an eye on Andy Murray’s Wimbledon quest!), I read outside for a few hours. Lord of the Rings, of course. Eventually I went back in to watch the fulfillment of Andy’s quest(British champion of Wimbledon, huzzah!!) and then evening service at church! More worship. More awesomeness.

And today, I was working, as is good. Upon coming home, I couldn’t resist the lure of the sun and the call of the road beneath my feet. A quick run later, home again…and out again to the garden to read and enjoy the goodness of the Lord. The sun is beautiful and the heat of the Scottish summer on my skin is glorious and I praise the One who made it all. Reading a few chapters of LotR was simply lovely. I have to say, I think my taste in reading may be changing over the years. A few years ago I would have said the chapter “The Battle of the Pelennor” would have been my favorite. Fierce deeds of valor and epic victory over evil and hope triumphant. And while I still loved reading that chapter yesterday, today, reading “The Houses of Healing”, I think a new favorite chapter has arisen. The dazing aftermath of battle. The sorrow of the sick and wounded. The slow renewal of hope. The return of the king into his city. And the hands that had just dealt destruction to the enemy and sent terror into the heart of darkness healed the broken and brought peace to the sick in heart. The hands of a king are the hands of a healer, indeed. Yes, a good chapter.

And of course, Aragorn and Gandalf both got to be extremely snippy with long-winded Gondorians! I just may have laughed out loud in the garden as I read.

And seriously – this is enough of me writing! I’m going to finish preparing my dinner(chicken and baked potatoes!!) and enjoy this evening the Lord has made. And as I think further upon my time here in Scotland dwindling, I cannot be thankful enough for what the Lord hath wrought here. In my life and in for His glory. Always. Peace, yo.

Seven Thousand

James HoganLeave a comment

G’morning y’all! Or actually afternoon if you’re in my timezone – can’t believe it’s already past 1 here. Oops. I got here(Books and Beans) about 9:45 I think? And I’m still here. Well, I got a bit caught up in my Bible study prep – getting ready for 1 Kings 19 in a few weeks time, and I’m getting really excited – such a great passage!! One of my favorites – just because…it’s so encouraging and uplifting and full of God’s awesome power and love. From the lowest low in Elijah’s life to God’s encouraging and exhorting words to then the sovereign pronouncement that we are not alone in this life. God is with us. And so are others. As God says, “I have yet reserved seven thousand that have not bowed the knee to Baal.” We are not alone, y’all, despite the state of this weary world sometimes indicating otherwise. Anyways! I should probably not be preaching a sermon on here, so I will cease. But I’ve had such fun going through this passage this morning. So I lost track of time.

Also posted some old pictures(from Maryanne’s graduation!!) on facebook – reminded me of such good times back in May with the fam. Oh how I am blessed. And now, about to read a bit of Laura’s story and enjoy my ham and cheese sandwich – I think I see the waitress bringing it over now!

Mmm, this looks delicious. I’m gonna eat and read and then run back home – French Open women’s final starting at 2. Sharapova v. Serena Williams! I’m a bit wary – Maria tends to get hammered by Serena..but we’ll see. (Tomorrow, Rafa goes for his 8th French Open title vs. Ferrer!). So this afternoon will be full of tennis and chores back at the flat. Then, dinner with Chris and Jo and Jaime tonight at Cosmo’s! Can’t wait for that! But now, lunchtime, before my sandwich gets cold.

Peace, yo.

Potentate of Time

James HoganLeave a comment

It’s early Wednesday morning – the middle of a mad, mad week…and I thought I would just briefly share one of my favorite songs of all time- one which we sung part of on Sunday evening at Gilc. Simply glorious.

Crown Him with many crowns,
the Lamb upon His throne.
Hark! How the heavenly anthem drowns
all music but its own.
Awake, my soul, and sing of him
who died for thee,
and hail him as thy matchless King
through all eternity.

Crown Him the virgin’s Son,
the God incarnate born,
whose arm those crimson trophies won
which now His brow adorn;
fruit of the mystic rose,
as of that rose the stem;
the root whence mercy ever flows,
the Babe of Bethlehem.

Crown Him the Son of God,
before the worlds began,
and ye who tread where he hath trod,
crown Him the Son of Man;
who every grief hath known
that wrings the human breast,
and takes and bears them for His own,
that all in Him may rest.

Crown him the Lord of life,
who triumphed o’er the grave,
and rose victorious in the strife
for those He came to save.
His glories now we sing,
who died, and rose on high,
who died eternal life to bring,
and lives that death may die.

Crown Him the Lord of peace,
whose power a scepter sways
from pole to pole, that wars may cease,
and all be prayer and praise.
His reign shall know no end,
and round his pierced feet
fair flowers of paradise extend
their fragrance ever sweet.

Crown him the Lord of love,
behold His hands and side,
those wounds, yet visible above,
in beauty glorified.
No angel in the sky
can fully bear that sight,
but downward bends his burning eye
at mysteries so bright.

Crown Him the Lord of Heaven,
enthroned in worlds above,
crown Him the King to whom is given,
the wondrous name of Love.
Crown Him with many crowns,
as thrones before Him fall;
Crown Him, ye kings, with many crowns,
for He is King of all.

Crown Him the Lord of lords,
who over all doth reign,
who once on earth, the incarnate Word,
for ransomed sinners slain,
now lives in realms of light,
where saints with angels sing
their songs before Him day and night,
their God, Redeemer, King.

Crown Him the Lord of years,
the Potentate of time,
Creator of the rolling spheres,
ineffably sublime.
All hail, Redeemer, hail!
For Thou has died for me;
thy praise and glory shall not fail
throughout eternity.