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
So I'll cherish the old rugged cross
'Til my trophies at last I lay down
I will cling to the old rugged cross
And exchange it some day for a crown
In the 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
So I'll cherish the old rugged cross
'Til my trophies at last I lay down
I will cling to the old rugged cross
And exchange it some day for a crown
To the old rugged cross I will ever be true
It's shame and reproach gladly bear
Then He'll call me some day to my home far away
Where His glory forever I'll share
So I'll cherish the old rugged cross
'Til my trophies at last I lay down
I will cling to the old rugged cross
And exchange it some day for a crown
And exchange it some day for a crown
The song "The Old Rugged Cross" by Don Moen is a powerful hymn that is deeply rooted in Christian tradition and faith. Its lyrics take us back to the time when Jesus was crucified on a hill far away, reminding us of the suffering and sacrifice that He endured for us.
The hymn begins with the description of the old rugged cross, symbolizing the suffering and shame that Jesus bore on our behalf. It emphasizes the love and appreciation for this cross, which represents the redemption and salvation of lost sinners. The cross is a reminder of the immense love that God has for us, willing to sacrifice His only Son to save us from our sins.
The lyrics of the song express a deep sense of reverence and devotion to the old rugged cross. The singer cherishes the cross and vows to cling to it, recognizing its significance in their life. It becomes a symbol of hope, forgiveness, and eternal life. The cross is not just a symbol of suffering but also a symbol of victory, as Jesus conquered death and sin through His sacrifice.
The inspiration behind this song comes from the biblical accounts of Jesus' crucifixion. In the Gospel of Matthew, we read about Jesus carrying His own cross to Golgotha, where He was crucified. The hymn draws upon these biblical narratives and invites listeners to reflect on the magnitude of Christ's sacrifice and the hope that it brings.
One scripture verse that relates to the theme of this song is found in Galatians 6:14, where the apostle Paul says, "But far be it from me to boast except in the cross of our Lord Jesus Christ, by which the world has been crucified to me, and I to the world." This verse speaks to the centrality of the cross in the life of a believer. It reminds us that our identity and worth are found in Christ and His sacrifice on the cross.
Another relevant scripture passage is found in 1 Peter 2:24, which says, "He himself bore our sins in his body on the tree, that we might die to sin and live to righteousness. By his wounds you have been healed." This verse highlights the redemptive power of Christ's sacrifice on the cross. Through His wounds, we find healing and freedom from sin.
"The Old Rugged Cross" is a hymn that resonates with believers around the world. It serves as a reminder of the incredible love and sacrifice of Jesus Christ. It invites us to reflect on the significance of the cross in our own lives and to cherish it as a symbol of hope and salvation.
In conclusion, Don Moen's rendition of "The Old Rugged Cross" beautifully captures the essence of this timeless hymn. Its lyrics, inspired by the biblical accounts of Jesus' crucifixion, invite us to reflect on the sacrifice and love displayed on the cross. As we meditate on the significance of the old rugged cross, may we be reminded of the hope and redemption that it represents for all who believe in Jesus Christ.
