Devotional hymns are sources are inspiration, hope, comfort, strength and guidance to believers in all situations of life remains unquestionable to this day. Hymns are perhaps just as powerful as sermons in reaching out to people and providing deeper connection with God.
There are hymns for every step of the day and for every significant Christian occasion. This Good Friday, let us look at three favourite hymns sung around the world to remember the sacrifice made by God and His Son, Jesus of Nazareth, to save mankind.
- The Old Rugged Cross: This hymn was written in 1912 by American evangelist and song-leader George Bennard (1873–1958). According to Wikipedia, Bernard is said to had written the first verse after being continuously ridiculed at a revival meeting.Hymnology Archive quotes George Bernard, “I was praying for a full understanding of the cross, and its plan in Christianity. I read and studied and prayed. I saw Christ and the Cross inseparably. The Christ of the Cross became more than a symbol. The scene pictured a method, outlined a process, and revealed the consummation of a spiritual experience. It was like seeing John 3:16 leave the printed page, take form, and act out the meaning of redemption. While watching this scene with my mind’s eye, the theme of the song came to me, and with it the melody; but only words of the theme, “The Old Rugged Cross,” came.”Bernard is said to have later finished writing the other three verses and performed the song for the first time for his friends Rev. Leroy and Ruby Bostwick who were moved to tears.
- Lead me to Calvary: Written by Jennie Evelyn Hussey (1874-1958) who is said to had begun writing verses at the very young age of 8. As an adult, Hussey continued writing but she is said to had spent most of life taking care of her sister who had disabilities.
The music for Lead me to Calvary was composed by Music by William J. Kirkpatrick (1838-1921).
- Burdens are lifted at Calvary: This contemporary hymn was written in 1952 by John M Moore, a pastor and evangelist in Canada. He is said to had written the verses after his interaction with a critically ill sailor at Glasglow, Scotland.