Couple’s Stripped-Down Version of 'The Old Rugged Cross'

This couple’s stripped-down version of “The Old Rugged Cross” will lift your spirit today. You can’t go wrong with the harmonica, guitar, and birds chirping. Play the video to remind us of the hope we have in Jesus. 

This couple's singing of "The Old Rugged Cross" is bringing glory to God through their cover of this sacred hymn. Some of the song’s lyrics are: 

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.

The couple’s quaint porch setting makes the video feel very relaxed and laid back. It’s like you’ve just stepped over to your neighbors in the suburbs or country for a chat or Bible study. It’s very inviting, and it makes you just want to sing along. It’s refreshing to see this couple singing "The Old Rugged Cross.”

The Old Rugged Cross Was Written in 1913

The old hymn was written in 1913 by storied songwriter George Bennard. George was a coal miner turned preacher who worked with the Salvation Army. He got the inspiration for this hymn while reflecting on Christ’s crucifixion. The words came to his head: “I’ll cherish that old rugged cross.”

“I really didn’t write it. I was merely the instrument God used,” George said. 

The cross is a symbol we all know well. We should remember it with solidarity, as it is the instrument of our Savior’s death. More than a symbol of mourning, it’s a symbol of sacrifice and love. Because Jesus saved us from all of our sins through his death. We will for eternity be grateful to that old rugged cross. 

“Who his own self bare our sins in his body upon the tree, that we, having died unto sins, might live unto righteousness; by whose stripes ye were healed.” 1 Peter 2:24