Drawn to the Cross which Thou Hast Blessed (Hymn)

Drawn to the Cross is a heartfelt hymn about repentance, cleansing, and devotion to Christ, expressing the believer’s desire to be washed from sin and serve God wholeheartedly. Centered on the power of the cross, this song reflects the biblical call to surrender, be purified, and find true rest in Christ’s redemptive love.

VERSE 1
Drawn to the Cross, which Thou hast blessed
With healing gifts for souls distressed,
To find in Thee my life, my rest,
Christ crucified, I come.

VERSE 2
Thou knowest all my griefs and fears,
Thy grace abused, my misspent years;
Yet now to Thee with contrite tears,
Christ crucified, I come.

VERSE 3
Wash me and take away each stain;
Let nothing of my sin remain.
For cleansing, though it be through pain,
Christ crucified, I come.

VERSE 4
And then for work to do for Thee,
Which shall so sweet a service be
That angels well might envy me,
Christ crucified, I come.

Story Behind the Song

In 1880, Genevieve Mary Irons, born in Brompton, England, in 1855, penned the hymn “Drawn to the Cross, Which Thou Hast Blessed.” That same year, it was published in the Sunday Magazine under the title “Consecration of Self to Christ.” Later, in 1884, Irons included this hymn in her manual for Holy Communion, Corpus Christi.[1]

Despite her conversion to Catholicism, Irons expressed gratification that her hymn resonated with individuals across various denominations. She noted, “I always feel that hymn is part of me… It contains expressions and allusions which to my mind are only capable of a Catholic meaning: but I am interested and gratified in knowing that the hymn speaks to the hearts of many who would probably differ from me on most points of doctrine.” [2]

The hymn gained popularity and was included in the Primitive Methodist Hymnal in 1881. Over time, it found its place in various hymnals, especially among Lutheran congregations in the United States. This widespread acceptance underscores the hymn’s universal appeal and its profound reflection on personal consecration to Christ. [3]

Irons’s work continues to inspire and draw believers toward a deeper relationship with Christ, exemplifying the enduring power of heartfelt devotion expressed through hymnody.