The Old Rugged Cross Lyrics - Merle Haggard

(Verse One) 

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. 

(Refrain)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 some day for a crown 

(Verse Two) 

O that old rugged Cross, so despised by the world 

Has a wondrous attraction for me 

For the dear Lamb of God, left His glory above 

To bear it to dark Calvary. 

(Refrain) 

(Verse Three) 

In that old rugged Cross, stained with blood so divine 

A wondrous beauty I see 

For twas on that old Cross, Jesus suffered and died 

To pardon and sanctify me. 

(Refrain) 

(Verse Four) 

To the old rugged Cross, I will ever be true 

It's shame and reproach gladly bear 

Then He'll call me some day, to my home far away 

Where His glory for ever I'll share. 

(Refrain)