The Great Exchange

Christ was all anguish that I might be all joy, – cast off that I might be brought in, – trodden down as an enemy that I might be welcomed as a friend, – surrendered to hell’s worst that I might attain heaven’s best, – stripped that I might be clothed, – wounded that I might be healed, – athirst that I might drink, – tormented that I might be comforted, – made a shame that I might inherit glory, – entered darkness that I might have eternal light. My Savior wept that all tears might be wiped from my eyes, – groaned that I might have endless song, – endured all pain that I might have unfading health, – bore a thorned crown that I might have a glory-diadem, – bowed his head that I might uplift mine, – experienced reproach that I might receive welcome, – closed his eyes in death that I might gaze on unclouded brightness, – expired that I might for ever live. –from The Valley of Vision