Fairest Lord Jesus

“Who is this, arising like the dawn, as fair as the moon, as bright as the sun, as majestic as an army with billowing banners?” Song of Solomon 6:10 NLT

How do we express our gratitude for the way Jesus has changed our lives? How special He is to us? How much we love Him? Many Believers have found just the right words in the hymn “Fairest Lord Jesus.” But few know its mysterious history.

Some accounts suggest that it originally was sung by German Crusaders during the twelfth century as they journeyed to the Holy Land. (In fact, it is sung today most often to a tune called the “Crusader Hymn.”) The words also have been attributed to a group of Jesuits from Germany, who published the hymn in 1677. Regardless of its true origins, it is best known in the English-speaking world from the translation provided by Joseph Seiss in 1873.

This hymn overflows with love for Jesus, and gratitude for all He has done. How the writer cherished the Savior and honored Him as “my soul’s glory, joy and crown.”

Looking at creation, we may observe the glories of nature, the fair meadows and woodlands “robed in the blooming garb of spring.” But Jesus is fairer and purer, and “makes the woeful heart to sing.”

While the sunshine is fair, “fairer still the moonlight, and all the twinkling starry host.” But Jesus shines even brighter, and even “purer than all the angels heaven can boast.” There may be beautiful things all around us, but “none can be nearer, fairer or dearer” than Jesus.

What does Jesus mean to you? Remember how easy it can be to focus on the things of this world, with their temporary appeal. Don’t lose sight of His eternal beauty! It is beautiful because it is inspired by selfless love. Because of all that He has done for you.

Prayer: Dear Lord Jesus, thank You for all that You have done for me. Thank You for changing my life. I owe everything to You. I love You, Lord. In Your Name. Amen.