Three Wooden Crosses
Randy Travis · I Told You So - The Ultimate Hits Of Randy Travis (2 CD) [2009]
Ridin' on a midnight bus bound for Mexico
One was headed for vacation, one for higher education
And two of them were searchin' for lost souls
That driver never ever saw the stop sign
An eighteen wheelers can't stop on a dime.
There are three wooden crosses on the right side of the highway
Why there's not four of them, Heaven only knows
I guess it's not what you take when you leave this world behind you
It's what you leave behind you when you go.
That farmer left a harvest, a home and eighty acres
The faith an' love for growin' things in his young son's heart
And that teacher left her wisdom in the minds of lots of children
Did her best to give 'em all a better start
And that preacher whispered: "Can't you see the Promised Land?"
As he laid his blood-stained bible in that hooker's hand.
There are three wooden crosses on the right side of the highway
Why there's not four of them, Heaven only knows
I guess it's not what you take when you leave this world behind you
It's what you leave behind you when you go.
That's the story that our preacher told last Sunday
As he held that blood-stained bible up, for all of us to see
He said: "Bless the farmer, and the teacher, and that preacher
Who gave this Bible to my mamma, who read it to me.
There are three wooden crosses on the right side of the highway
Why there's not four of them, now I guess we know
I guess it's not what you take when you leave this world behind you
It's what you leave behind you when you go.
There are three wooden crosses on the right side of the highway.
Three Wooden Crosses
Three Wooden Crosses stands as a defining moment in Randy Travis's extensive discography, showcasing his mastery of traditional country and gospel-inflected storytelling. The recording captures the artist's signature baritone as he delivers a poignant narrative about redemption and the enduring power of faith. As a staple of his later career, the song reinforces Travis's reputation for crafting emotionally resonant works that bridge the gap between secular country and spiritual reflection. Its inclusion on major compilation albums highlights its status as a fan favorite and a critical touchstone within his body of work. The track exemplifies the timeless quality of his songwriting, offering listeners a deeply moving experience that has secured its place alongside his most celebrated hits.