At the Foot of the Cross

We Hail Thee, Saviour and Lord...
Thy Cross Ever Be Adored.

This morning at church, as we began the Way of the Cross with these familiar words, I couldn’t help but feel how deeply they anchor this day in the heart. It’s Good Friday—a day that stops us in our tracks, inviting us to remember the immense sacrifice of Jesus for all of us. As the prayers and reflections moved through the fourteen Stations, we found ourselves thinking about how these moments in Christ’s journey speak to us even now—in our own burdens, our own struggles, our own need for hope.

Later, I remembered one year during Lent long ago, our parish screened “Jesus of Nazareth” - and the vivid imagery made the Gospel feel so real. Also, I took some time to recall the hymns that truly represent the season of Lent.

“How Great Thou Art” is a hymn that feels timeless. Originally a Swedish poem by Carl Boberg, it was inspired by the contrast of a raging thunderstorm and the sudden peace that followed. It speaks of awe at God’s majesty… but the verse that always brings me to a pause is: “And when I think, that God, His Son not sparing, sent Him to die…” It’s really humbling. And extremely powerful. And it's a reminder of God’s infinite love and mercy.

Another favorite “Give Them All to Jesus.” has journeyed with me since childhood. I remember hearing it on the same cassette as "One Day At A Time" with Cristy Lane soft and gentle voice. The song is an invitation to bring the “Shattered dreams, wounded hearts, and broken toys…” to Him—the mess, the pain, the weariness. On Good Friday, this message feels incredibly close. Couldn't resist trying it out as a duet here. 

A more recent favourite is “Above All.” I first heard it during Lent in 2008, and everytime we sing it feels new and just as powerful. 

“Like a rose trampled on the ground, You took the fall, and thought of me… above all.” This one line carries the weight of Good Friday so beautifully. It reminds us that Jesus didn’t just endure the cross—He chose it, with us on His heart.

And then there’s “The Old Rugged Cross.” that takes me right back. Our parish organist, who had once been my kindergarten music teacher, would often play it during quiet moments after Communion. There was something sacred about those still silences, filled with soft organ notes and deep reflection. That hymn will always be tied to the gentle reverence of Lent for me. Here's my effort to play it. 

All these songs have stayed with me—not just in memory, but in heart. And today, I’ve tried to honour them in my own small way through these covers. 

Good Friday is a solemn day, but it’s also a day of love—a love that gave everything. And while we sit in this moment of quiet, we do so with the hope of what’s to come.

Because Sunday is coming.

Wishing you and your loved ones a joyful, hope-filled Easter.

Christ is Risen. Alleluia!