“Jesus Christ is risen today, Alleluia! Our triumphant holy day, Alleluia! Who did once upon the cross, Alleluia! Suffer to redeem our loss. Alleluia!

Hymns of praise then let us sing, Alleluia! Unto Christ, our heavenly king, Alleluia! Who endured the cross and grave, Alleluia! Sinners to redeem and save. Alleluia!

But the pains which he endured, Alleluia! Our salvation have procured; Alleluia! Now above the sky he’s king, Alleluia! Where the angels ever sing. Alleluia!

Sing we to our God above, Alleluia! Praise eternal as his love; Alleluia! Praise him, all you heavenly host, Alleluia! Father, Son, and Holy Ghost. Alleluia!”

– “Jesus Christ is Risen Today,” Latin Carol, 14th century, tr. J. Walsh, Lyra Davidica, 1708, alt; Charles Wesley, st. 4. Music by J. Walsh, Lyra Davidica, 1708; Public Domain.

“Jesus Christ is Risen Today,” is my favorite Easter hymn. It’s also one of my absolute favorite hymns period. With its singing, the triumph is announced in the worship experience. We boldly sing and declare the promise of the resurrection. We are reminded of our baptisms. We are reminded of what has gone on over the past few days, Maundy Thursday and Good Friday in particular.

I can think of no better thing to share with all of you today in spreading the news and joy of Easter.  This is the day of celebration. This is the day which culminates Emmanuel- God with us. God has overcome all human limitation by overcoming death. The love of God for all has been shared and there is nothing we can do about it but give thanks and praise, rejoice, and share the good news through word and deed. This love is for all people and all creation. This is the good news that the gospels point to. This is why we love our neighbors as ourselves, because Jesus has done this for all. The least we can do is to try and do likewise in loving our neighbors as ourselves. Jesus doesn’t say, I love you “if.” Jesus says “I love you.” Period. That’s the point of Easter. There isn’t anything we can do to earn this love. There aren’t any rules we can follow which will secure this love. No. The work has been done. God loves us. Now what are you going to do about it?

I hope today and every day that you are able to share this good news- through stories, conversation, smiles to perfect strangers, holding the door open for another, etc. Rejoice and be glad, and share this Easter proclamation:

Christ is Risen!

Christ is Risen indeed!

Christ is Risen!

Christ is Risen indeed!

Christ is Risen!

Christ is Risen indeed! Alleluia! 

Image Credit:  “Empty Tomb & Matthew 28:6“