Jesus richte mein Beginnen - Jesus Shepherd My Beginning (J. S. Bach: Christmas Oratorio, Part IV)
Words: Original German text is attributed by some to Christian Friedrich Henrici
Music: Jesus richte mein Beginnen (J. S. Bach: Christmas Oratorio, Part IV) | Johann Sebastian Bach
Original German Lyrics (Source: Johann von Rist, 1642):
Jesus richte mein Beginnen,
Jesus bleibe stets bei mir,
Jesus zäume mir die Sinnen,
Jesus sei nur mein Begier,
Jesus sei mir in Gedanken,
Jesu, lasse mich nicht wanken!
English Translation:
Jesus, guide my beginning,
Jesus, stay with me always,
Jesus, curb my inclinations,
Jesus, be my sole desire,
Jesus, be in my thoughts,
Jesus, do not let me waver!
Another Translation:
Jesus, who didst ever guide me,
Jesus, my strong helper be,
Jesus, save, whate’er betide me,
Jesus, make me trust in Thee,
Jesus, let Thy grace attend me,
Jesus, still from sin defend me.
