At the Cross Where I First Saw the Light is a popular hymn that has been sung in churches for many years. The hymn was written by Isaac Watts, a prolific hymn writer who lived in the 18th century. The lyrics of the hymn are powerful and speak to the heart of every Christian.

History of the Hymn

Isaac Watts wrote the hymn in 1707, and it was first published in his collection of hymns called Hymns and Spiritual Songs. The hymn quickly became popular and has been sung in churches ever since. The tune that is commonly used for the hymn was written by Ralph E. Hudson in 1885.

Meaning of the Lyrics

The lyrics of At the Cross Where I First Saw the Light are powerful and speak to the heart of every Christian. The hymn is about the moment when a person first comes to faith in Jesus Christ. The cross is a symbol of the sacrifice that Jesus made for us, and it is at the cross where we first see the light of salvation.

The first verse of the hymn says:

At the cross, at the cross where I first saw the light,
And the burden of my heart rolled away,
It was there by faith I received my sight,
And now I am happy all the day!

This verse speaks to the moment when a person first comes to faith in Jesus Christ. The burden of sin is lifted, and the person is filled with joy and happiness.

The second verse of the hymn says:

Was it for crimes that I have done,
He groaned upon the tree?
Amazing pity! grace unknown!
And love beyond degree!

This verse speaks to the sacrifice that Jesus made for us on the cross. He died for our sins, even though we are unworthy of such love and grace.

Conclusion

At the Cross Where I First Saw the Light is a powerful hymn that speaks to the heart of every Christian. The lyrics remind us of the sacrifice that Jesus made for us on the cross and the joy and happiness that comes with faith in Him. The hymn has been sung in churches for many years and will continue to be a beloved hymn for generations to come.