The cross of Christ inspires my heart, To sing redeeming grace; Awake my soul and bear a part In my Redeemer's praise. Oh, who can be compared to Him, Who died upon the tree, This is my dear delightful theme, That Jesus died for me. A glor'ous band, the chosen few, On whom the Spirit came, Twelve valiant saints, their hope they knew, And mocked the cross and flame; O God, to us may grace be giv'n To follow in their train, Through peril, toil, and pain they climbed The steep ascent to heav'n.