There are not many in the world who haven’t heard the classic hymn “The Old Rugged Cross.” In the year 1912, the evangelist and preacher George Benard was inspired to write this famous tune. His heart was rattled and discouraged from the mockery he experienced at a revival meeting in Michigan from a group of youngsters. The song’s early lyrics were inspired that week; the rest of the words to this masterpiece would follow a few months later while still in Michigan. He sold all rights to the song for $500.00 and received another $5,000.00 after the copyright was renewed 28 years later.
Benard understood the cross and resurrection were necessary for the salvation of all of creation, not just humankind. He did not look at Jesus as a martyr, and neither should we. The death and resurrection of Jesus were necessary to atone for the wages of sin and victory over death. We should not look at Jesus as a barricade standing between God and us, assuming God can’t wait to punish us for our sinful ways. We need to learn that Jesus hates sin as much as God but loves humankind in a manner most can’t understand. Jesus despised sin so much that he gave up his life to defeat it. Talk about the most remarkable love story ever told.
The cross represents the extreme darkness of humankind and the depths of God’s love for humanity. Let us never lose sight of the true meaning behind the Old Rugged Cross. As kingdom people, we follow a Jesus-looking God and subscribe to a cruciform theology. Our faith helps us make sense of this fallen world and understand the entire essence of God’s true character revealed to us in the person of Jesus Christ. The Old Rugged Cross’s story is proclaimed throughout all sixty-six books of the Bible; it’s truly God’s Word and love story.
Scripture Readings
Reflection Questions
- What did you take away from today’s reflection and scripture readings?
- What is your favorite version of the Old Rugged Cross?
- Did you know the history of the Old Rugged Cross?
- How would you explain the Old Rugged Cross to a new believer?
- What do you think cruciform theology means?
- Would you agree that Jesus is a pacifist?
Prayer
Holy One, thank You for sending Jesus to die for my sins. I will cling to the Old Rugged Cross And exchange it someday for a crown. I am eternally grateful to You. In Jesus’ name. Amen.
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