Growing up in my grandmother’s house, I rarely heard her sing while working around the house — with one exception. Occasionally, she would sing “The Old Rugged Cross” quietly as she went about her tasks.
I thought it would be interesting to look at the history of that song.
The song was written by George Bennard in 1912 and performed for the first time in a small Methodist church in Michigan church in 1913.
I don’t know when my grandmother first heard that song, but she was born in 1901, and I’m guessing she was probably a teenager, because the song quickly became popular in churches and revival meetings.
The hymn’s simple yet profound lyrics reflect on the centrality of the cross, calling believers to "cling to the old rugged cross" as a symbol of Christ’s sacrifice for our sins.
For more than a century, “The Old Rugged Cross” has been a fixture in worship services, and gatherings of Christians.
I’ve included the lyrics of all four verses below.
1 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 some day for a crown.2 O 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. [Refrain]3 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. [Refrain]4 To that 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. [Refrain]
The song’s appeal didn’t stop at the doors of the church. Its message crossed over into popular culture, with many of the 20th century’s most beloved artists recording or performing the hymn. Tennessee Ernie Ford, Johnny Cash, Patsy Cline, and even Elvis Presley included "The Old Rugged Cross" in their gospel repertoires, further cementing its legacy. These artists, known for their rich, soulful voices, brought the hymn into homes and hearts across the nation.
In a world filled with uncertainty, "The Old Rugged Cross" reminds us of the eternal hope found in Christ’s sacrifice. It’s also a song of endurance, one that calls us to cling to the cross—no matter the trials we face—until we trade it for a crown.
Performances
Thanks to YouTube I’ll share some recordings of this song below. I encourage you to listen to a few of them.
Before I go, I’d like to share a blessing with you from the Old Testament.
“May the Lord bless and protect you; may the Lord’s face radiate with joy because of you; may he be gracious to you, show you his favor, and give you his peace.”
Numbers 6:24-26 (The Living Bible)
Until next time … be the reason someone smiles today
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