Behold the Wounds in Jesus’ Hands #1016
Hymn Overview
- Title: Behold the Wounds in Jesus’ Hands
- Composers: John V. Pearson (lyrics), David R. Naylor (music)
- Year Written: 1997 (lyrics), 1998 (music)
- Key Line: “Behold the wounds in Jesus’ hands, the marks upon His side.”
- Historical Context:
- Previous Hymnbook Editions: This hymn was not part of earlier hymnbooks and made its debut through the Church Music Submission program in 1998.
- Original LDS Hymnbook: It wasn’t included in the original hymnbook compiled by Emma Smith.
- Origin: Written by two members of the LDS Church, the hymn reflects the tradition of personal compositions that deeply center on the Savior’s life and Atonement.
Cultural and Religious Significance
- Commonality Outside LDS Culture: This hymn is primarily recognized within the LDS community and is not commonly found in other Christian hymn traditions.
- Central Theme: The Atonement of Jesus Christ, inviting worshippers to reflect on His suffering and the love expressed through His sacrifice.
- Doctrinal Content: It beautifully aligns with LDS doctrine, using vivid imagery to highlight the significance of the Savior’s Atonement.
- Hymn Selection Criteria:
- Increases faith in and worship of Heavenly Father and Jesus Christ: The hymn encourages deep reverence for the Savior’s ultimate sacrifice.
- Teaches core doctrine with power and clarity: The clear focus on the wounds of Christ emphasizes the core belief in His Atonement.
- Invites joyful singing at home and at church: While contemplative, the hymn inspires heartfelt worship.
- Comforts the weary and inspires faith: It offers solace by inviting believers to remember the Savior’s love and suffering.
- Unifies Latter-day Saints: Its inclusion in hymn collections helps unify members through shared expressions of devotion.
Inclusion Rationale
- New Inclusion: Though it’s a newer addition to the hymnbook, it feels like it’s always belonged. Its powerful message about the Atonement and beautifully composed music make it a perfect fit for both personal and communal worship.
Impact and Reception
- Community Feedback: The hymn has been well-received in worship settings and has become a meaningful part of Church events, especially in meetings focused on the Savior’s Atonement.
- Worship Impact: Its profound lyrics and melody make it ideal for Sacrament meetings, Easter services, or any setting centered on the Savior’s Atonement.
Additional Notes
- Interesting Facts: The hymn emerged from the Church Music Submission program, emphasizing the Church’s commitment to encouraging member contributions to its musical heritage.
- Personal Observations: Although this hymn is new, there’s an undeniable sense of familiarity to it, especially in its musical setting. I can’t quite place where I’ve heard it before, but it feels like it’s been part of the hymn tradition for a long time. This sense of familiarity might be why it resonates so deeply with many listeners, making it feel instantly recognizable and comforting.
This exploration provides an insightful look at the hymn’s significance and why it resonates so powerfully, even for those hearing it for the first time.
Behold the wounds in Jesus’ hands,
The mark upon His side,
Then ponder whom He meant to save
When on the cross He died.
We cannot see the love of God,
Which saves us from the Fall,
Yet know that Christ from wood and nails
Built mansions for us all.
Behold the outstretched hands of Christ—
Our Lord, who came to save—
Whose love and grace redeem our souls
And lift us from the grave.
Though we are bruised whene’er we stray,
His guiding hands caress.
He washes and anoints with oil,
And in His arms we rest.
Behold the wounds in Jesus’ hands.
Look to your Lord and live.
He yearns to bless you with His love
And all your sins forgive.
Oh, empty is the heart of man
When it is filled with sin.
Come, open wide your broken heart
And let your Savior in!
Behold His wounded hands and feet!
Come touch, and see, and feel
The wounds and marks that you may know
His love for you is real.
Then as you fall to worship Him
And wash His feet with tears,
Your Savior takes you in His arms
And quiets all your fears.
The words “Christ from wood and nails built mansions for us all” are a poetic expression that reminds us of the Savior’s Crucifixion and His gift of eternal life. The Lord told His disciples: “In my Father’s house are many mansions. … I go to prepare a place for you” (John 14:2).
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