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Hymn: “Beneath the Cross of Jesus” – Elizabeth Clephane (1830-1869)
Tune: ST. CHRISTOPHER
On this Ash Wednesday, let's consider our proximity to the cross. this opening hymnline of one of my favorite Lenten hymns is all about that proximity to the cross. After answering the question “Are we there yet?”, we are drawn within “the shadow of a mighty rock” and “a home within the wilderness, a rest upon the way.”
We often steer away from singing this hymn because in the original text printed in most hymnals, the word “fain” is used instead of the word “gladly.” When our mind has to stop and wonder what a word means, we sometimes lose the thought that follows; therefore, I’m glad that some song books and arrangements are using less archaic language to help us ‘get it’ without explanation!
I would have used the word “proudly,” but pride is such a no-no in church-speak! However, we should be proud to take our stand with Christ at the foot of his cross, shouldn’t we?!
Taking our stand for Christ and with Christ is vital for those of us who would be counted as one of His. Our placement keeps people from second-guessing who we are and whose we are. In today’s society, that establishment of our post is key to our vitality as witnesses to “the very dying form of One who suffered there for me.”
Looking for prime real estate in the Kingdom? Find it beneath the cross of Jesus.
A Men’s A Cappella Setting of This Hymn
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