Near the Cross - Hymn Lyrics

1 Jesus, keep me near the cross,
There a precious fountain;
Free to all, a healing stream,
Flows from Calv'ry's mountain.

Refrain:
In the cross, in the cross
Be my glory ever,
Till my ransomed soul shall find
Rest beyond the river.

2 Near the cross, a trembling soul,
Love and mercy found me;
There the Bright and Morning Star
Shed His beams around me. 

3 Near the cross! O lamb of God,
Bring its scenes before me;
Help me walk from day to day
With its shadow o'er me. 

4 Near the cross! I'll watch and wait,
Hoping, trusting ever;
Till I reach the golden strand,
Just beyond the river. 

“Near the Cross” is a classic hymn written by Fanny J. Crosby, one of the most prolific and beloved hymn writers of the 19th century. Crosby, who was blind from infancy, composed over 8,000 hymns during her lifetime, and her lyrics are known for their deep devotion to Christ and their emphasis on personal faith. “Near the Cross” was written in 1869, a year that marked a significant period in Crosby’s life of ministry and hymn writing. The hymn focuses on the believer’s longing to remain close to the cross, a symbol of both suffering and salvation.

The hymn’s opening line, “Jesus, keep me near the cross,” sets the tone of the entire song—a prayerful plea for God’s presence and guidance in the midst of life’s challenges. The cross, as both a symbol of Christ's sacrifice and the source of redemption, becomes a place of refuge and strength for the believer. The repeated refrain of “Near the cross, I’ll watch and wait, hoping, trusting ever” echoes a theme of patient faith, anticipating the fulfillment of God’s promises through the sacrifice of Christ.

Each verse of “Near the Cross” delves deeper into this longing for the presence of Christ and the power of the cross to transform lives. The hymn touches on themes of forgiveness, peace, and healing that come through the work of Jesus. Crosby’s words invite the believer to continually draw nearer to the cross—not just in moments of sorrow, but in moments of triumph and joy as well. The hymn emphasizes that the cross is not only where we find salvation, but also where we find daily sustenance and grace.

The beauty of “Near the Cross” lies in its simplicity and depth. It’s a hymn of devotion that invites the listener into a personal encounter with Christ’s sacrifice. The melody, often paired with a gentle, reflective tune, enhances the contemplative nature of the lyrics. For many, this hymn has become a powerful reminder to remain focused on Christ, especially during times of trial or uncertainty. Crosby’s legacy lives on in this hymn, as it continues to inspire believers to keep their eyes fixed on the cross—the ultimate symbol of God’s love and redemption.