Beneath the Cross of Jesus

I don't know about you, but I love music. I love old hymns and the incredible message they contain. Many times I will even pick out a favorite line and just think about what portions of Scripture they come from. A church I was in recently sang Beneath the Cross of Jesus during the service. I don't know if I have ever really looked at the words of this song. It was a tremendous blessing to me, so I thought I would share it.

Beneath the cross of Jesus I fain would take my stand,

the shadow of a mighty rock within a weary land;

a home within the wilderness, a rest upon the way,

from the burning of the noontide heat, and the burden of the day.

Upon that cross of Jesus mine eye at times can see

the very dying form of One who suffered there for me;

and from my stricken heart with tears two wonders I confess:

the wonders of redeeming love and my unworthiness.

I take, O cross, thy shadow for my abiding place;

I ask no other sunshine than the sunshine of his face;

content to let the world go by, to know no gain nor loss,

my sinful self my only shame, my glory all the cross.

Text: Elizabeth C. Clephane, 1830-1869  Music: Frederick C. Maker, 1844-1927  Tune: ST. CHRISTOPHER, Meter: 76.86.86.86