Down at the Cross

“May it never be that I would boast, except in the cross of our Lord Jesus Christ, through which the world has been crucified to me, and I to the world.”
Galatians 6:14 NASB

Elisha Albright Hoffman loved music. He also was a committed Believer, a man who spent most of his life in ministry, serving as pastor of several churches. He combined these passions by writing more than 2,000 Gospel songs. Born in 1839 in Orwigsburg, Pennsylvania, Hoffman also edited fifty song books.

One of his songs told how joyful he felt when he paused to consider what Jesus had done for him. He wrote, “Down at the cross where my Savior died, down where for cleansing from sin I cried, there to my heart was the blood applied; Glory to His Name!”

Hoffman could glorify because, “I am so wondrously saved from sin.” He knew the reality of salvation because “Jesus so sweetly abides within.” Jesus had saved him and kept him clean.

But he also wanted others to share the joy he felt: “Come to this fountain so rich and sweet, cast thy poor soul at the Savior’s feet; plunge in today, and be made complete; glory to His Name!” The chorus of this song echoed how his heart overflowed with gratitude and praise: “Glory to His Name, glory to His Name.”

It can be so easy for us to be consumed by the burdens and cares of our daily lives that we can forget all that Jesus has done for us. We do not have to be weary or worried. We have every reason to shout the praises of God!

Today, join with Elisha Hoffman and David the psalmist. Think of all the things that God has done for you. Give Him praise and glory. And commit your life and resources to spreading the Gospel so others might know this same joy.

Prayer: Dear Lord Jesus, thank You for dying for my sins. I am so grateful for all that You have done for me. I dedicate my life to You. I give You praise and glory. In Your name. Amen.