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. 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) 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) To that old rugged cross i will ever be true, Its shame and reproach gladly bear; Then he'll call me some day to my home far away, Where his glory forever i'll share. (refrain)