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I absolutely LOVE this song. Why? Because it puts things in their proper perspective. It reminds me that my own sin is no less offensive than the next person’s. It reminds me that I stand before a Holy God as a wretched and miserable sinner. But more than that, a wretched sinner who is (by God’s grace alone) loved and accepted despite myself. Be sure to check out the lyrics below the video and visit Thousand Tongues for some more great music.

 

No list of sins I have not done,
No list of virtues I pursue,
No list of those I am not like,
Can earn myself a place with You.
O God! Be merciful to me—
I am a sinner through and through!
My only hope of righteousness
Is not in me, but only You.

No humble dress, no fervent prayer,
No lifted hands, no tearful song,
No recitation of the truth
Can justify a single wrong.
My righteousness is Jesus’ life,
My debt was paid by Jesus’ death,
My weary load was borne by Him
And he alone can give me rest.

No separation from the world,
No work I do, no gift I give,
Can cleanse my conscience, cleanse my hands;
I cannot cause my soul to live.
But Jesus died and rose again—
The pow’r of death is overthrown!
My God is merciful to me
And merciful in Christ alone.

Ending:
My righteousness is Jesus’ life,
My debt was paid by Jesus’ death,
My weary load was borne by Him
And he alone can give me rest.

By Eric Schumacher & David L. Ward