Jesus, keep me near the cross

The words to this awesome hymn, "Jesus, keep me near the Cross" were written by Fanny Crosby in 1869. They really speak to me of a deep desire to be near to Jesus and to know that God is watching over us. I suppose the first line - Jesus, keep me near the Cross, can be seen in 2 different ways.

On the one hand, it can seen as a prayer.... "Jesus, I need to be near to you, as you understand what I am going through and it is your Cross that is my salvation. Your cross is a place of safety and grace."

Secondly, these words are also a form of commitment, on our behalf. We resolve to remain near to the cross and not to move away from Jesus. 

In case you would like to read the lyrics to the whole song, here they are:

Jesus, keep me near the cross, There a precious fountain— Free to all, a healing stream— Flows from Calv’ry’s mountain. In the cross, in the cross, Be my glory ever; Till my raptured soul shall find Rest beyond the river. Near the cross, a trembling soul, Love and Mercy found me; There the bright and morning star Sheds its beams around me. Near the cross! O Lamb of God, Bring its scenes before me; Help me walk from day to day, With its shadows o’er me. Near the cross I’ll watch and wait Hoping, trusting ever, Till I reach the golden strand, Just beyond the river.
May you have a blessed day and may we resolve to stay near to the cross.
Living in Grace D3LM3