431 – The Council of Ephesus (the 3rd of 21 ecumenical councils of the church) adjourned. This Council condemned Nestorianism and Pelagianism, and defined Mary’s title as “theotokos” (God-Bearer).

1674 – Isaac Watts was born in Southampton, England  on this day.  He wrote more than 600 hymns, including one of my favorites, “When I Survey the Wondrous Cross.”

When I survey the wondrous cross
On which the Prince of Glory died
My richest gain I count but loss
And pour contempt on all my pride

Forbid it Lord that I should boast
Save in the death of Christ my God
All the vain things that charm me most
I sacrifice them to His blood

His dying crimson, like a robe,
Spreads o’er His body on the tree;
Then I am dead to all the globe,
And all the globe is dead to me.

See from His head His hands His feet
Sorrow and love flow mingled down
Did ere such love and sorrow meet
Or thorns compose so rich a crown

Were the whole realm of nature mine
That were an offering far too small
Love so amazing so divine
Demands my soul, my life, my all

1935 - P.D.Q. Bach [aka Peter Schickele] was born today in Iowa.  Here are a couple of videos for your amusement.