It was an ancient olive grove
1 It was an ancient olive grove
that sheltered Jesus while he prayed,
his heart in anguish as he strove
and gave himself to be betrayed.
2 When morning came he was condemned
and to his execution led:
God's guiltless Son unjustly blamed,
a murderous bandit freed instead.
3 Then lifted up for all to see,
the Prince of life was crucified:
they nailed his body to a tree,
and thrust a spear into his side.
4 But, Christ, the precious blood you shed
has bought our peace, our sins forgiven;
and since you rose up from the dead
we rise to life, as heirs of heaven.
Emma Turl
© Emma Turl, admin. The Jubilate Group
Metre: 8 8 8 8 (LM)