OLD RUGGED CROSS

The old rugged cross-can you vision it?  Made of wood, weathered and old, but with much meaning.  Because of this vision and the meaning of the cross one of the most popular hymns was created. 

This old hymn, written by George Bennard an evangelist, was created when Bennard reflected on Jesus’s suffering on the cross.  In 1913 at a revival he had received ridicule, which made him think of Christ and the ridicule he received.  The first verse of this well-known hymn was written and the rest was history.  The influence this song has had in its 102 years is unbelievable.

That old rugged cross is the solution to our problems.  Because of the cross our sins are forgiven.  Christ died on the cross for us so we would not have to suffer the punishment we deserve.  (1Peter2: 24)  Through his death and resurrection he conquered death itself.

The simple two lines at right angles is a representation of victory for all of us who are living today in this fallen world.  A sacrifice made for us to have eternal life.  Grace we possess because of that old rugged cross. 

Because of everything in Him, peace, patience, love, understanding, empathy, compassion, we can go to our cross and be forgiven.  Go to that old rugged cross everyday and seek the Lord.  Ask for forgiveness for those things that He already knows.  Make the cross and Christ the center of your life and you will one day have your crown.  

Matt Slick- To the Cross Again-Christian Apologetics and Research Ministry

To the cross again I go.

There is nothing else I know.

Its strength is all I need.

Where Jesus for me bleed.

To cleanse me of my sins

To give me strength within

Jesus alone I know.

To the cross again I go.