Mercy There Was Great

Take me closer to the cross
Nearer, my God, to Thee
That I’d have a more intimate view
Of what You did for me.

Take me closer to the cross
Have Thine own way
That I would have a fresh anointing
Of Your power to save.

Take me closer to the cross
There’s power in the blood
That I might be a stunning example
Of Your unfailing love.

Take me closer to the cross
It is well with me –
That I’d not spurn Your guiding hand,
Your gentle chastening.

Take me closer to the cross
Then sings my soul
That in the light of Your greatness
I would be made whole.

Take me closer to the cross
Just as I am
That mercy would capture me
As the thicket, the ram.

Take me closer to the cross
Where I first saw the light
That I’d speak the wonders
Of Your precious sacrifice.

Take me closer to the cross
That old rugged thing –
Where Christ’s redemptive work
Turned the wrath of God,
Eternal life to bring.

Take me closer to the cross
As in the old, old story
That my only victory
Would be in honoring You,
In bringing You glory.

Take me closer to the cross
That saved a wretch like me
That I’d be Your constant praise,
Extol You endlessly.

Take me closer to the cross
Only trust Him now –
That He will save me once again:
Not on man will I count.