The Old Rugged Cross. Just the mention of this iconic hymn can evoke a flood of emotion and nostalgia in the hearts of many. This beloved hymn holds a special place in the hearts of Christians around the world, and its powerful message continues to resonate through the ages.
The Old Rugged Cross is often associated with a simple, rustic wooden cross – a symbol of sacrifice, redemption, and hope. It reminds us of the ultimate act of love that Jesus Christ demonstrated by willingly laying down His life on the cross for our sins. The hymn invites us to reflect on this profound sacrifice and find solace and strength in the power of the cross.
As we sing the lyrics of this timeless hymn, we are transported back in time to Calvary, where Jesus bore our sins and gave us the gift of eternal life. The lyrics take us on a journey of sorrow, gratitude, and assurance as we ponder the significance of the cross.
In the first verse, we hear the words:
“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.”
This verse sets the stage for the rest of the hymn, encapsulating the heart of the Gospel message. It reminds us of the sacrificial love that led Jesus to willingly bear the weight of our sins on the cross, despite the suffering and shame it entailed.
As we continue singing, we are reminded of the immense worth and value of the cross. The second verse declares:
“For 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.”
These words affirm that, despite the world’s disdain for the cross, it holds a unique and undeniable allure for those who understand its significance. The cross is not only a symbol of pain and suffering but also a testament to God’s incredible love and grace.
The third verse of the hymn echoes the personal connection we feel to the cross:
“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.”
These words remind us that the cross is not just a historical event but a deeply personal and transformational experience. It is where Jesus shed His blood to offer us forgiveness and redemption, enabling us to be washed clean and sanctified through His sacrifice.
The Old Rugged Cross holds a special place in the hearts of believers because it reminds us of the incredible love and grace that God bestowed upon us through the sacrifice of His Son. It invites us to embrace the message of the cross and find hope, healing, and forgiveness in Jesus Christ.
As we conclude our journey through this beloved hymn, let us take a moment to reflect on the profound impact of the cross. The final verse declares:
“To the old rugged cross, I will ever be true
Its shame and reproach gladly bear;
Then He’ll call me someday to my home far away,
Where His glory forever I’ll share.”
These words encapsulate the eternal hope and promise that the cross represents. It assures us that as followers of Christ, we can find solace in the shame and reproach associated with the cross because it leads us to a glorious home in the presence of God.
The Old Rugged Cross continues to inspire and move hearts around the world with its timeless message of love, sacrifice, and redemption. Today, let us remember the significance of the cross and the incredible love that God has for each and every one of us.
