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.

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.

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.

Chorus:

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.

Chorus:

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.

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.

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George Bennard (1913) (1873-1958)

An old hymn for this Good Friday, a day of remembrance of the sufferings of Christ Jesus, our Lord, Savior and soon coming King.