When I was growing up, I was told that one of the most popular songs in the USAmerica was “The Old Rugged Cross.” It is difficult for me to think of the Passion week, and all the events surrounding it without thinking of this song. George Bennard born in 1873 in Ohio became a Christian under the influence of the Salvation Army, During a campaign in 1912 he was ridiculed and in response started writing this song. By the end of the campaign it was finished, sung as a duet with his friend and finally published in 1915. The famous evangelist Billy Sunday used this song regularly in his campaigns, touching the hearts of many. So much happens during Holy Week, ending with the Last Supper, the Garden of Gethsemane, the Cross, the Resurrection and then the Ascension – all events that define Christianity and our understanding of the epic story of people. May you enjoy this rendition that shares of the salvation we are offered. Blessings.
1. On a hill far away, stood an old rugged Cross
The emblem of suff’ring and shame
And I love that old Cross where the dearest and best
For a world of lost sinners was slain
Chorus
So I’ll cherish the old rugged Cross
Till my trophies at last I lay down
I will cling to the old rugged Cross
And exchange it some day for a crown
2. Oh, that old rugged Cross so despised by the world
Has a wondrous attraction for me
For the dear Lamb of God, left His Glory above
To bear it to dark Calvary
Chorus
3. In the old rugged Cross, stain’d with blood so divine
A wondrous beauty I see
For ’twas on that old cross Jesus suffered and died
To pardon and sanctify me
Chorus
4. To the old rugged Cross, I will ever be true
Its shame and reproach gladly bear
Then He’ll call me some day to my home far away
Where His glory forever I’ll share
On the Way to Wonder 