Lord Jesus, by Thy passion

“Lord Jesus, by Thy Passion” is a meditative hymn that focuses on the sufferings of Christ for the redemption of sinners. Written by Richard Frederick Littledale in the 19th century, the hymn invites worshipers to reflect deeply on the significance of Christ’s passion, emphasizing both His voluntary sacrifice and the profound love behind it. It is suited for devotional use, especially during Lent, Holy Week, or Good Friday services.

The hymn’s text guides the believer to contemplate Christ’s suffering in a personal and spiritual manner. Rather than merely recounting historical events, it connects the Passion to the believer’s own need for forgiveness and grace. By meditating on the wounds and suffering of Christ, the faithful are drawn into gratitude and awe for the atoning work of the Savior.

A key theme of the hymn is intercession. The worshiper not only remembers Christ’s suffering but seeks to be spiritually united with Him in faith, recognizing that His death secured salvation and eternal life. This aligns with the biblical teaching that Christ bore our sins in His body on the cross, providing healing and reconciliation for all who believe.

The hymn also emphasizes the transformative effect of meditating on Christ’s Passion. Reflecting on His humility, endurance, and obedience encourages believers to live in holiness, to embrace self-denial, and to trust God’s providence in the midst of trials. The meditation on suffering is never purposeless; it leads to strengthened faith and deeper devotion.

“Lord Jesus, by Thy Passion” endures as a devotional hymn because it combines theological depth with heartfelt reflection. Its focus on Christ’s sacrificial love and the believer’s spiritual response makes it a timeless aid for worship, prayer, and meditation on the mystery and power of the cross.