The Hymnal 1982 ‎#434

434. Nature with open volume stands

1 Nature with open volume stands
to spread her Maker's praise abroad
and every labor of his hands
shows something worthy of a God.

2 But in the grace that rescued man
his brightest form of glory shines;
here, on the cross, 'tis fairest drawn
in precious blood and crimson lines.

3 Here his whole Name appears complete;
nor wit can guess, nor reason prove
which of the letters best is writ,
the power, the wisdom, or the love.

4 Oh, the sweet wonders of that cross
where Christ my Savior loved and died!
Her noblest life my spirit draws
from his dear wounds and bleeding side.

5 I would for ever speak his Name
in sounds to mortal ears unknown,
with angels join to praise the Lamb
and worship at his Father's throne!

Text Information

• First Line: Nature with open volume stands
• Author: Isaac Watts, 1674-1748
• Meter: LM
• Language: English
• Publication Date: 1985
• Topic: Jesus Christ our Lord

Tune Information

• Name: ELTHAM
• Composer (melody): Nathaniel Gawthorn, 18th cent.
• Harmonizer: Samuel Sebastian Wesley, 1810-1876
• Meter: LM
• Key: e minor