On a hill far away stood an old rugged cross, The emblem of suffering and shame How I love that old cross where The dearest and best For a world of lost sinners was slain 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. To the old rugged cross, I will ever be true Its shame and reproach gladly bear Till he calls me someday to my home far away Where his glory forever I'll share 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.