The hymn "Jesus, Keep Me Near the Cross" is a profound reflection on the Christian faith and the significance of the cross in salvation. Here's a line-by-line explanation:
1. **"Jesus, keep me near the cross, There a precious fountain; Free to all, a healing stream, Flows from Calv'ry's mountain."**
- The writer expresses a desire to stay close to the spiritual presence of the cross, symbolizing Jesus' sacrifice. The "precious fountain" and "healing stream" refer to the forgiveness and redemption that flow from Jesus' act of love and sacrifice at Calvary.
**Refrain:**
**"In the cross, in the cross Be my glory ever, Till my ransomed soul shall find Rest beyond the river."**
- The refrain emphasizes the cross as a source of eternal pride and glory for believers. It speaks to the hope of salvation and eternal peace ("rest beyond the river") that comes from faith in Jesus' sacrifice.
2. **"Near the cross, a trembling soul, Love and mercy found me; There the Bright and Morning Star Shed His beams around me."**
- This verse describes a personal experience of finding God's love and mercy. The "Bright and Morning Star," a title for Jesus, illuminates the believer's life with grace and guidance.
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."**
- The "Lamb of God" is another title for Jesus, referencing his role as a sacrificial offering. The writer asks to be constantly reminded of the cross's significance and for it to guide their daily life.
4. **"Near the cross! I'll watch and wait, Hoping, trusting ever; Till I reach the golden strand, Just beyond the river."**
The final verse speaks to the believer's vigilant faith and trust in God's promises. The "golden strand" symbolizes heaven, and the "river" represents the barrier between earthly life and eternal rest.
The songwriter, Fanny Crosby, was inspired to write this hymn after hearing a melody that suggested the phrase "Jesus keep me near the cross" to her¹.
The lyrics reflect her deep personal faith and the central place of the cross in Christian belief. The cross is seen as the pivotal point of contact between the divine and humanity, where Jesus' sacrifice opened the way for salvation.
Crosby's hymns often contain vivid imagery and powerful biblical metaphors, which are evident in this hymn as well. The song encourages believers to remain close to the spiritual comfort and promise of salvation that the cross represents.
