A friend sent me this lovely Chinese communion song and a literal translation by a missionary/translator. There is no better way to procrastinate than to translate, arrange, and record a new global hymn, so I set to work!
The key to translating a song is to get the spirit of the song, rather than just the words. Is the song highbrow or heartfelt? What is the rhyme scheme in the original language–or is there one? Is the music simple or complicated? All these questions come into play when “transplanting” a song from one culture to another.
“One with the Lord” is a simple chorus with no surprises or sophisticated nuances. And yet, in its simplicity it is lovely and immensely singable. You’ll notice that the lyrics are all in first person. I’m not always a fan of “Jesus and me” communion songs, but I’ll make an exception for this authentic expression of personal prayer. One of the difficulties was that meter is 6.6.6.4. With lines that short–and distinct breaks between each line–it’s hard to fit all of the Chinese lyric’s meaning into so few English syllables. In cases like this, I always choose singability over correct grammar.
I would love to hear from anyone who has sung the song in its original language or know where the song originated!
1. Christ gave himself for me–
body and blood for me.
The bread and cup I see
come from our Lord.
Christ broke the bread of life,
poured out salvation’s wine.
I eat and drink and I’m
one with the Lord.
2. I have been crucified.
My sin is dead in Christ.
And yet I am alive–
alive for God.
I am made new in Christ.
Darkness gives way to light.
Christ has become my life.
Glory to God!