The Old Rugged Cross

Written by George Bennard in 1912.  We love to learn about the writers of these hymns, but sometimes it is just good to read the words of the song.  As you read the words below, I can image you humming the tune as well!

Verse 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
 
Verse 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
 
Verse 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
 
Verse 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