Monday, October 13, 2008

insights in translation

Something interesting about the Christian culture here is that they will have the traditional songs with a completely different translation. As much as I like Fanny Crosby's version of the hymn, "Near the Cross," I think my new culture's translation is a whole lot more powerful.

Thankfully, my church sang it twice on Sunday. This is my rough translation from my new language.

Bring Me Near the Cross (or, the English title, "Near the Cross")

bring me Jesus, near Your Cross
the water of life and Your blood make my heart holy
the Cross, the Cross, forever glory
my sin has been erased by the blood of Jesus

my faith is the smallest, the Lord will not leave me
illuminate my heart with Your Holy Spirit
the Cross, the Cross, forever glory
my sin has been erased by the blood of Jesus

Your cross, my rest, I long for your love
As long as I live I want to be obedient to you
the Cross, the Cross, forever glory
my sin has been erased by the blood of Jesus