The Old Rugged Cross

Galatians 2:20 - “I am crucified with Christ: nevertheless I live; yet not I, but Christ liveth in me: and the life which I now live in the flesh I live by the faith of the Son of God, who loved me, and gave himself for me.”

In this powerful verse, apostle Paul expresses  the profound impact of his faith in Jesus Christ. He emphasizes that his old self has died, and now he lives a new life in Christ. Its central theme is the believer’s union with Christ through faith.  This verse ultimately emphasizes our identification with Christ’ crucifixion and the transformative power of His sacrifice.

George Bennard (1873–1958) was an American hymn composer and preacher, best known for composing the famous hymn. Despite aspiring to become a Christian evangelist, he had to support his mother and sisters after his father’s sudden death. He had a remarkable evangelical and musical career. He became active in the Salvation Army, preaching throughout the United States and Canada.  His life was marked by service and devotion to spreading the Christian message. He composed “The Old Rugged Cross” in 1912 as a response to ridicule he faced during a revival meeting in Michigan. Troubled by their disregard for the Gospel, he turned to Scripture and had a vision of Christ and the Cross inseparable. The melody came easily for him. 

For its legacy and significance, “The Old Rugged Cross” uses a sentimental popular song form, expressing the writer’s adoration of Christ and His sacrifice at Calvary. It has become a cherished hymn worldwide. Bennard retired to Reed City, Michigan, where a museum dedicated to his life and ministry stands. A memorial cross was erected near his home in Reed City.

The hymn matters because it resonates with believers because it beautifully captures the essence of Christ’s sacrifice on the cross. Its heartfelt lyrics evoke deep emotions and remind us of the redemptive power of Jesus’ death. Through its simple yet profound message, “The Old Rugged Cross” has touched countless hearts, providing comfort, hope, and assurance to generations of worshippers. Believers, musicians, and recording artists across genres have embraced this hymn, ensuring its enduring impact and meaning to our everyday life.

This is to share with you this beloved hymn, “The Old Rugged Cross”, a timeless hymn of faith:

On a hill far away stood an old rugged cross,

The emblem of suffering and shame;

And I love that old cross where the Dearest and Best

For a world of lost sinners was slain.

Refrain:

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 someday for a crown.

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.

In that old rugged Cross, stained with blood so divine

A wondrous beauty I see

For 'twas on that old cross Jesus suffered and died

To pardon and sanctify me.

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.

This song remains a cherished hymn, with its lifting melody and words of personal trust in the cross of Christ. Let us remember that beyond the suffering and shame, the Cross holds resurrection power. When Jesus conquered death and sin, He secured our victory. Let us open our eyes once again to the resurrection morning when Christ appeared in all His glory. The old rugged cross is not just a symbol, it’s a conduit for God’s transformative power within us. Let us embrace the Cross, not as a burden, but a privilege which leads us to our eternal home, where we’ll share His glory forever. 

Our Prayer for Today:

Dear Heavenly Father, as I stand before the old rugged cross, I am reminded of the sacrifice You made for me. You took my place on that wooden beam, bearing my sins, putting my sinful nature to death. Your love flowed down like crimson, washing away my guilt and shame. Lord Jesus, I confess that I often fall back into my old patterns, living for myself instead of You. But today, I surrender anew. I acknowledge that it is no longer I who live, but You who live in me. Your Spirit dwells within, transforming my heart, renewing my mind. In this time, I embrace the truth: I am crucified with Christ. My old way of life is dead. My old way of processing life is over. It is no longer I who live, but You, the resurrected Christ, who lives in me. My earthly body now lives by faith and complete trust in You, the Son of God. Thank You for the indescribable gift of Your love and presence. Thank You for placing me in the heavenly realms with You by Your grace. As I dwell in Your love, help me to release my old ways of thinking and doing. Lord, I pray moment by moment that Jesus Christ dwells and lives inside of me. My life is intertwined with eternity, and my spirit is alive in the Eternal Now. I am one with the Father, Son, and Holy Spirit. I possess eternity in my heart. Lord, as I gaze upon the old rugged cross, it reminds me not only of Your sacrifice but also of my transformation. I pray that I live each day in the power and love of the resurrected Christ. Amen.