Piano Demo
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Hymnal Number
435Resource Type:
Keys included:
F
About this Hymn
It seems impossible to compile a hymnal for largely American churches without recognizing the immense contribution of Fanny J. Crosby. The cross is the central theme woven throughout her vast body of work, rooted in her own conversion at an evangelistic meeting while hearing "At the Cross" by Isaac Watts. Her life's story is marked by both the extraordinary breadth of her hymns and the deep intensity of her faith. She once said, "If I had a choice, I would still choose to remain blind, for when I die, the very first face I ever see will be the face of my blessed Jesus." One of my childhood favorites, this hymn is rarely sung today, so we sought to adapt the lyrics—both to modernize the language and to incorporate this profound quote of hers in a new fourth verse.
Lyrics
Verse 1
Jesus, keep me near the cross: there a precious fountain, free to all, a healing stream, flows from Calv'ry's mountain.
Chorus
In the cross, in the cross, be my glory ever, till my ransomed soul shall find rest beyond the river.
Verse 2
Near the cross, my trembling soul heard the Savior calling; there he died that I may know grace and peace abounding.
Verse 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.
Verse 4
Near the cross! My heart will stay, hoping, trusting ever, till my eyes shall see the face of my blessed Savior.
Jesus, keep me near the cross: there a precious fountain, free to all, a healing stream, flows from Calv'ry's mountain.
Chorus
In the cross, in the cross, be my glory ever, till my ransomed soul shall find rest beyond the river.
Verse 2
Near the cross, my trembling soul heard the Savior calling; there he died that I may know grace and peace abounding.
Verse 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.
Verse 4
Near the cross! My heart will stay, hoping, trusting ever, till my eyes shall see the face of my blessed Savior.
Copyrighted lyrics may be used in corporate worship in accordance with a valid CCLI license. Lyrics should be displayed unaltered and include author and copyright information. All other uses require permission from the copyright holder.
Attribution & Copyright
Words: Fanny Crosby, 1869; alt. Matt Boswell, Keith Getty, Kristyn Getty © 2025 Getty Music Publishing / Messenger Hymns (Capitol CMG Publishing / www.capitolcmgpublishing.com)
Music: William H. Doane, 1869
Music: William H. Doane, 1869