The Old Rugged Cross: The Path to Redemption

Author: Ayodeji Oludapo

Date: November 1, 2024

Scripture: "For all have sinned and fall short of the glory of God, and all are justified freely by his grace through the redemption that came by Christ Jesus." — Romans 3:23-24 (NIV)

Devotional Thoughts

The old rugged cross stands as a symbol of hope and redemption for all humanity. Each of us has faced moments where we have failed—whether in thought, word, or action. Sin has separated us from the perfection and holiness of God, leaving a void that cannot be filled by our own efforts. But God, rich in mercy, made a way for us to be reconciled to Him. That way was the old rugged cross upon which Jesus willingly laid down His life.

Jesus’ sacrifice on the cross was not a random act but a deliberate choice. He bore our sins so that we might be free, trading His righteousness for our failures. This incredible exchange was made possible because God loves us deeply and desires us to be in a relationship with Him. It’s easy to forget that redemption—the chance to start anew—is available to everyone who comes to the cross, not by our own merits, but because of Christ’s work.

The cross was not a comfortable place. It was a place of immense suffering, yet from that suffering came new life. Jesus endured the pain of the cross so that we might have the opportunity to experience forgiveness and freedom. When we think of the old rugged cross, we are reminded of the depth of Christ’s love—a love that was willing to endure unimaginable agony just to bring us back to God. Redemption is not just a word; it is the reality made possible through the cross.

Practical Reflections

Think about the moments when you have felt distant from God—maybe due to guilt, shame, or a sense of inadequacy. Remember, Jesus carried all of those burdens to the cross. You do not need to live weighed down by them anymore. The path to redemption is open to you, paved by His blood.

Reflect on the way the cross transforms your perspective. Perhaps there is a sin you have been struggling to let go of, or a mistake that keeps resurfacing. Bring it to the foot of the cross. Imagine the weight being lifted off your shoulders as you hand it over to Jesus. His love covers it, and through Him, you are redeemed.

Take some time today to meditate on what the cross means personally to you. Maybe even take a walk and find a quiet place to sit. Picture the old rugged cross and the price paid for your redemption. Allow the magnitude of that sacrifice to sink in, and then rejoice in the freedom you now have as a redeemed child of God.

Closing Thoughts

The old rugged cross is a reminder that no matter how far we may have strayed, we have a way back to God. Redemption is a gift—unearned, undeserved, and yet freely given. It is a call to embrace grace, to lay down our sins, and to rise in newness of life. The cross paved the way, and Jesus beckons each of us to walk that path, leaving behind our old selves and stepping into the joy of redemption.

Prayer

Dear Lord, thank You for the old rugged cross. Thank You for taking my sin upon Yourself and for offering me the gift of redemption. Help me to always remember the price You paid and to live in a way that honours Your sacrifice. When I fall short, remind me of Your grace and the way that is always open back to You. Thank You for loving me beyond my mistakes and failures. I give You my burdens and trust in Your promise of forgiveness. In Jesus’ name, Amen.