57. O Jesus, King most Wonderful

Verse 1

O Jesus, King most wonderful,

Thou Conqueror renowned,

Thou Sweetness most ineffable,

In Whom all joys are found!

 

Verse 2

When once Thou visitest the heart,

Then truth begins to shine,

Then earthly vanities depart,

Then kindles love divine.

 

Verse 3

Jesus! Thy mercies are untold,

Through each returning day;

Thy love exceeds a thousand fold

Whatever we can say

Verse 4

May every heart confess Thy name;

And ever Thee adore;

And seeking Thee, itself inflame,

To seek Thee more and more.

 

Verse 5

Thee may our tongues forever bless;

Thee may we love alone;

And ever in our lives express

The image of Thine own.

 

Verse 6

Grant us, while here on earth we stay

Thy love to feel and know;

And when from hence we pass away

To us Thy glory show.

Author: Bernard of Clairvaux, tr by Edward Caswall