“The Old Rugged Cross”

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

Chorushttps://www.youtube.com/watch?v=-JS9P8d2iOc

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