Rock of Ages

What started out as a terrifying experience opened the door to a life-changing revelation for Augustus Toplady. Born in England in 1740, his spiritual journey included being an Anglican priest and ministering in a French Calvinist church. But he still had a very human response when he experienced a severe storm.

Seeking a place of refuge, he found shelter amid a massive rock formation. There, it was as though his eyes were opened to what Jesus had done for him. He expressed this revelation in the hymn, “Rock of Ages, cleft for me.”

This hymn reminds us that we can trust in Jesus during the storms of life: That He is our Rock, and that we can hide in Him. His shed blood can both save us “from wrath” and make us pure. We can’t do these things in our own strength or through our own efforts. As Toplady realized, “Thou must save, and Thou alone.”

His hymn reminds us of how much we depend on Jesus: “Nothing in my hand I bring, simply to the cross I cling; naked, come to Thee for dress; helpless look to Thee for grace.” He alone can wash us of our sins. We will continue to trust in Him, even as we pass into eternity: “While I draw this fleeting breath, when mine eyes shall close in death.”

Since it was first published in 1775, this hymn has been a powerful reminder to both the famous and none-famous believers. It was sung at the funeral of long-time British Prime Minister, William Gladstone, as well as American President Benjamin Harrison. The simple truth is that all of us, alike, need to depend on Jesus.

Today, remember to focus on Jesus. Make Him Your Rock. Trust in Him.