The Old Rugged Cross

I’m an Eastern Star, and I met with our organist yesterday to select music for my upcoming term starting next fall.

We begin each meeting with a prayer then address and honor the flag of our Country. The song I picked for this section of our meeting next year was The Old Rugged Cross!

“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.

So, I’ll cherish that old rugged cross. Till my trophies at last I lay down. I will cling to that old rugged cross and exchange it someday for a crown.

To the old rugged cross, I will ever be true. It’s shame and reproach gladly bear. Then he’ll call me someday to my home far away. Where his glory forever I’ll share.” songwriters: George Bernard/M Feahy

To be condemned to punishment by death on the cross was saved for the worst of the worst. The Romans had devised a public, torturous death sentence for their criminals.

Jesus died a criminal’s death! He who knew no sin died as though a contemptible dreg of humanity. Why? Jesus became our sin offering! His blood shed on the cross was the ultimate sacrifice for all mankind!

Within the thirty-some years that Jesus walked this earth, he experienced the life of humankind! He wasn’t a god with superhuman powers, no cape, no mask! Jesus was God in the flesh! He had God’s power behind him the same as you and I do, but he was 100% man!

He had the same limitations as we; He hurt, got sick, had feelings, friends, disappointments, laughed, joked, and made enemies, many enemies! He had a mom, brothers and sisters, and a stepfather who taught him a trade! He talked to the rich, poor, unbelievers, and the saints! He helped people with disabilities, the beggars, the old, and the blind. He loved! He brought light to darkness!

He has seen it all, felt it all, and given his all!

Thank you, Lord Jesus, for your walk on this earth. Leaving behind your disciples who valiantly spread your gospel, the same gospel we live by today! The same gospel we share!

Thank you, Father God, for the sacrifice of your son so that we may spend eternity in Heaven with you!

Thank you Lord for that Old Rugged Cross! 😔