"Near the Cross", alternatively named "Jesus, Keep Me Near the Cross" or "In the Cross", is a Christian hymn authored by Fanny Crosby and published in 1869. In this hymn, Crosby calls to Jesus to keep her "near the cross" and therefore within his love and grace. Discover the lyrics and background of this amazing hymn along with music videos below!
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. [Refrain]
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. [Refrain]
4 Near the cross! I'll watch and wait,
Hoping, trusting ever;
Till I reach the golden strand,
Just beyond the river. [Refrain]
Baptist Hymnal, 1991
The Story Behind Near The Cross
The melody was composed by William Howard Doane before Crosby wrote the lyrics for "Near the Cross". The tune is in F major and 6/8 time. It continues to be one of Crosby's famous hymns and has been transcribed into numerous languages, including German, Russian, Haitian Creole, and Spanish.
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