George Bennard was born into a miner's family in Ohio and came to Christ as a youth. He wanted to go to theological school, but family concerns kept him from the education he desired. In time, he became a traveling evangelist, diligently studying his Bible and reading all the books he could find. During one period of his ministry, he carefully studied the subject of the cross of Christ, praying for a deeper understanding of its meaning and power. As he preached from town to town, the words of a hymn began formulating in his mind. He sang portions of it at his meetings. Finally he finished his hymn and sang the completed version to friends, asking them, "Will it do?"
It has done very well. It's "The Old Rugged Cross."
One of the hymn's central ideas is that our trophies in this world are temporary and cannot compare to the power of the cross or to the crown to be awarded us when we stand before Jesus, "where His glory forever I'll share."
In an age of awards and trophies, let's keep our eyes on the cross and the crown.
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 someday for a crown. George Bennard
Susan
Galatians 6:14 (NIV) May I never boast except in the cross of our Lord Jesus Christ, through which the world has been crucified to me, and I to the world.
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5 comments:
Thanks so much for stopping by my blog, Susan. Love your site.
And, wow, last night we just watched the Passion of Christ, and I was once again moved to tears with how much our Savior loves us...enough to die on the cross. The Old Rugged Cross was always one of my most favorite hymns to sing as well. Special meaning especially around Easter. Look forward to getting to know you better.
(hugs)
One of my very favorite old hymns. I remember singing that with my grandma, she was the one to always take me to church as a kid. Thank you for reminding me of this beautiful song and of my beautiful grandma!! So very thankful for Jesus and "the old rugged cross"
Love
Angel
allthemus.blogspot.com
Thanks for sharing the story behind the hymn! It's one of my favorites, and one of the first I learned by heart.
Amen. Praise God! Thank You Father God for giving us words of praise to sing to You. In Jesus' name, amen.
Susan,
Thanks as always for leaving me such wonderful well wishes and prayers during my recovery. You will always be more than a friend to me.
Love and Hugs ~ Kat
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