When Nothing Hurts

Our Easter service blossoms into an interwoven musical tapestry, each hymn and anthem meticulously chosen to resonate with the themes of hope, resurrection, and redemption. From the opening strains of “Christ Arose,” which paints a vivid picture of darkness giving way to light, to the triumphant declaration of “Jesus Shall Reign,” the music serves not merely as background accompaniment but as a powerful narrative element that deepens the emotional and spiritual impact of the service.

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The opening hymn, “Christ Arose,” sets the stage with contrasting musical moods. The low, melancholic chords paint a picture of the tomb’s darkness while the soaring melody erupts like the dawn, celebrating Jesus’ triumph over death. The text reinforces this duality, proclaiming, “Low in the grave He lay.” However, the hymn doesn’t linger in sorrow. The triumphant melody and lyrics, “Jesus my Lord!” shift the focus to the joy and liberation of the Resurrection.

Born in 1826 in Philadelphia, Lowry was a gifted composer and a renowned Baptist preacher and educator. His contributions to gospel music, including classics like “Nothing but the Blood of Jesus” and “Shall We Gather at the River,” have left an indelible mark on Christian worship.

“Christ Arose,” composed in 1874, captures the essence of Easter morning with its triumphant melody and powerful lyrics. Lowry’s inspiration for the song came from Luke 24:6-8, where the women find the empty tomb and are told by angels that Jesus has risen. The refrain, “Up from the grave He arose,” echoes the biblical narrative of Jesus’ victory over death, reminding us of our hope in his resurrection.

As we listen to this timeless hymn, we are transported back to the first Easter morning, where the disciples’ grief turned to joy upon discovering the empty tomb. Like generations before us, we proclaim Christ’s victory over death and the hope it brings to our lives.

In Acts 10:34-43, we encounter Peter’s proclamation of the gospel to Cornelius and his household. Peter boldly declares that Jesus is Lord of all and that through his death and resurrection, forgiveness of sins is offered to all who believe in him. This message of redemption and new life is at the heart of our faith and is beautifully expressed in the hymns we sing.

“Christ the Lord is Risen Today” stands as a cornerstone of Easter hymnody, inviting us to join in the jubilant celebration of Christ’s victory over death. Penned by Charles and John Wesley, founders of The United Methodist Church, this beloved hymn first appeared in their seminal hymnal, Hymns and Sacred Poems, in 1739. Its inclusion in the section designated for Easter underscores its significance as a proclamation of resurrection hope.

As we sing the opening lines, “Christ the Lord is ris’n to day, / Sons of men and angels say,” we are transported back to that first Easter morning, standing alongside the witnesses of the empty tomb. The absence of alleluias in the original text, later added by editors to fit the tune, reminds us of the hymn’s roots in the early Methodist movement and its evolution over time.

Charles Wesley’s lyrics beautifully articulate the triumph of love over death, proclaiming, “Love’s redeeming work is done, / Fought the fight, the battle won… / Lives again our glorious King, / Where, O death, is now thy sting?” These words echo the apostle Paul’s triumphant declaration in 1 Corinthians 15:55, reminding us that death has been swallowed up in victory through Christ.

As we journey through life, we encounter moments of sorrow, loss, and grief. Yet, “Christ the Lord is Risen Today” proclaims that Jesus has conquered all forms of death, both literal and metaphorical. Through his resurrection, we are offered new life and the promise of eternal fellowship with God.

When we gather for worship and raise our voices in song, we celebrate not only Christ’s resurrection but also the hope it brings to our lives. As disciples of Jesus, we are called to live out this resurrection hope each day, sharing the good news with the world around us.

“I Know That My Redeemer Liveth” is a moving aria from the third movement of Messiah, composed by the renowned George Frideric Handel. The text of this stirring piece is drawn directly from Scripture, specifically Job 19:25-26 and 1 Corinthians 15:20, reflecting the timeless truths of redemption and resurrection.

Handel’s Messiah stands as one of the most celebrated works of Western classical music, and its creation is nothing short of miraculous. Composed in a mere 24 days, this 260-page oratorio is a testament to Handel’s unparalleled genius and unwavering devotion to his craft.

A Triumph Over Adversity

Numerous challenges and setbacks, including financial struggles and professional disappointments, marked Handel’s life. Yet, Messiah proved to be a turning point in his career, garnering critical acclaim and financial success upon its premiere in 1742.

Despite facing opposition from the Church of England, Handel’s Messiah resonated deeply with audiences, drawing them into a profound worship and praise experience. The iconic Hallelujah Chorus, in particular, became a symbol of triumph and jubilation, with audiences rising to their feet in reverence.

*A Legacy of Faith

Handel’s unwavering faith permeates every note of Messiah, transcending the boundaries between sacred and secular music. While many of his contemporaries confined their compositions to the church, Handel boldly expressed his devotion to God through oratorio, opera, and orchestral works, reaching audiences far beyond the walls of the sanctuary.

As Handel’s life drew to a close, he deeply longed to be reunited with his Creator, echoing the sentiments of “I Know That My Redeemer Liveth.” His passing on the morning of Holy Saturday, just eight days after conducting his final performance of Messiah, serves as a fitting testament to his enduring faith and profound impact on the world of music.

Embracing Hope

As we reflect on Handel’s Messiah and the timeless truths it proclaims, we are reminded of our hope in our Redeemer, who conquered death and offers us eternal life. Amid life’s trials and tribulations, may we find solace and strength in the music that uplifts our spirits and points us towards the promise of resurrection.

“The Holy City” is a religious Victorian ballad composed in 1892, with music by Michael Maybrick and lyrics by Frederic Weatherly. It quickly became one of the most commercially successful songs of its time, resonating deeply with audiences in both the UK and the United States.

The song’s poignant lyrics take us on a journey through the key events of Jesus Christ’s life, from his triumphant entry into Jerusalem on Palm Sunday to his crucifixion on Good Friday. This culminates in the vision of the “New Jerusalem” of universal peace and brotherhood, as foretold in Isaiah 2:4 and Isaiah 11:6-9.

A Song of Redemption and Transformation

One remarkable anecdote recounts how “The Holy City” touched the lives of individuals in unexpected ways. In the African Methodist Episcopal Church Review in 1911, it is reported that the song was sung by an opera singer awaiting trial for fraud in his cell. As the song began, a group of men arrested for drunken disorderliness dropped to their knees, deeply moved by its message of hope and redemption. The judge, witnessing this profound moment of transformation, chose to dismiss the men without punishment, illustrating the transformative power of music to touch hearts and change lives.

A Legacy of Inspiration

“The Holy City” has left an indelible mark on popular culture. It is referenced in literary works such as James Joyce’s Ulysses and gained renewed popularity through its inclusion in the 1936 film San Francisco. Its melody also served as the basis for spirituals and jazz compositions, further cementing its place in musical history.

Embracing the Promise of Redemption

As we reflect on “The Holy City” and its timeless message of redemption and hope, we are reminded of the transformative power of faith and the promise of a new Jerusalem where peace and brotherhood reign supreme. In the midst of life’s trials and tribulations, may we find solace and inspiration in the enduring truths of this beloved hymn.

We offer “The Holy City” as our Offertory selection, inviting you to embrace the promise of redemption and transformation in your life.

Last night I lay asleeping There came a dream so fair I stood in old Jerusalem Beside the temple there I heard the children singing And ever as they sang Methought the voice of Angels From Heaven in answer rang “Jerusalem, Jerusalem! Lift up your gates and sing, Hosanna in the highest. Hosanna to your King!” And then methought my dream was chang’d The streets no longer rang Hushed were the glad Hosannas The little children sang The sun grew dark with mystery The morn was cold and chill As the shadow of a cross arose Upon a lonely hill “Jerusalem, Jerusalem! Hark! How the Angels sing, Hosanna in the highest, Hosanna to your King!” And once again the scene was changed New earth there seemed to be I saw the Holy City Beside the tideless sea The light of God was on its streets The gates were open wide And all who would might enter And no one was denied No need of moon or stars by night Or sun to shine by day It was the new Jerusalem That would not pass away “Jerusalem! Jerusalem Sing for the night is o’er Hosanna in the highest Hosanna for evermore!”

“Christ is Risen” is a relatively new addition to The United Methodist Hymnal, written in 1984 by Dr. Brian Wren. This hymn beautifully encapsulates Easter’s joy and hope, celebrating Christ’s resurrection and transformative power.

Dr. Wren, a revered theologian and ordained minister in Britain’s United Reform Church, crafted this hymn with inclusive language and metaphors, ensuring its message resonates with all. Rooted in the theological themes of God’s covenant in history and the revelation of Jesus Christ, “Christ is Risen” speaks to the timeless truth of Christ’s victory over sin and death.

Scriptural Foundations of Hope

Each stanza of “Christ is Risen” draws upon biblical imagery and promises, offering a profound theological reflection on the significance of Christ’s resurrection. Inspired by Revelation 22:2, the first stanza portrays Christ’s entrance into our broken world to bring salvation and renewal. It speaks to the transformative power of Christ’s resurrection, offering healing and grace to all.

Based on John 15:15, the second stanza emphasizes the intimate relationship between Christ and his followers. It reminds us that Christ is not just a distant deity but a friend who walks alongside us, offering strength and companionship in our darkest moments.

The final stanza, rooted in Revelation 22:13, proclaims Christ’s eternal presence and victory over evil. It calls us to resist despair and embrace the hope that Christ’s resurrection brings, knowing that he is with us always.

Musical Inspiration and Unity

The familiar tune of “Christ is Risen,” borrowed from the Polish carol “Infant Holy, Infant Lowly,” adds to the hymn’s accessibility and singability. Dr. Wren’s deliberate choice of this melody creates a lyrical link between the Incarnation and Resurrection seasons, inviting congregations to journey seamlessly from Christmas to Easter in worship.

While there was initially a suggestion to use Beethoven’s “Hymn to Joy” as the tune for this hymn, Dr. Wren firmly advocated for the use of “Infant Holy, Infant Lowly,” recognizing its inherent connection to the text’s themes of renewal and rebirth.

Embracing Resurrection Hope

As we lift our voices in song with “Christ is Risen,” we are invited to embrace the promise of resurrection hope. This hymn reminds us that Christ’s victory over sin and death has forever changed the world, offering us healing, companionship, and eternal life.

Join us in singing “Christ is Risen” as our Hymn as we reflect on the transformative power of Christ’s resurrection and the hope it brings to all humanity.

“The Day of Resurrection” bursts forth with the triumphant spirit of Easter, echoing the joyous proclamation of Christ’s victory over death. Penned by St. John of Damascus, also known as John Damascene, in the 8th century, this hymn stands as a testament to the enduring hope found in Christ’s resurrection.

St. John of Damascus, a revered figure in Eastern Christianity, composed this hymn as part of the Golden Canon, a series of Easter poems celebrating God’s mighty acts. His profound theological insight and literary prowess shine through in this hymn’s vivid imagery and stirring language.

A Journey Through Byzantine Hymnody

Rooted in the rich tradition of Byzantine hymnody, “The Day of Resurrection” holds a special place in the liturgical repertoire of the Eastern Church. John Damascene’s mastery of the kanon, a form of Christian poetry, elevated him to prominence as one of the most important hymnographers of his time.

As hymnologist John Mason Neale translated this ancient hymn into English in the 19th century, he sought to capture the essence of its original Greek text while making it accessible to Western audiences. Through his translation, the timeless truths of Christ’s resurrection are made manifest in the English-speaking world.

Scriptural Imagery and Cosmic Praise

Drawing upon biblical imagery and theological themes, “The Day of Resurrection” invites believers to join in the cosmic chorus of Easter praise. Each stanza resonates with scriptural references, from the Passover of Exodus to the Nicene Creed’s affirmation of God as the Creator of all things.

As we sing of Christ’s victory over death, we are reminded of the profound significance of Easter in the Christian faith. The hymn paints a vivid picture of the transformation wrought by Christ’s resurrection, from death to life eternal, from darkness to light.

Easter Vigil and Eternal Praise

“The Day of Resurrection” evokes images of ancient Easter liturgies, where believers gathered to proclaim Christ’s triumph over death. From the solemn darkness of night to the radiant glow of thousands of tapers, the hymn captures the awe and wonder of Easter’s dawn.

As we raise our voices in song, we join with believers past and present in proclaiming the eternal joy of Christ’s resurrection. Let us embrace the hope and promise of Easter, knowing that Christ the Lord has risen, our joy that hath no end.

As we journey through the Easter season, may this hymn inspire us to live as people of resurrection hope, sharing the good news of Christ’s triumph with all the world.

“Jesus Shall Reign” offers a powerful vision of Christ’s universal reign, echoing the sentiments of Psalm 72 and rooted in the Christian experience. Written by Isaac Watts in the 18th century, this hymn reflects the geopolitical landscape of England and the rise of the British Empire, presenting Christ as the ruler whose kingdom knows no bounds.

Watts’s paraphrase of Psalm 72 in his collection Psalms of David, Imitated in the Language of the New Testament (1719), boldly declares, “Jesus shall reign” where the sun’s rays reach, envisioning a world where Christ’s sovereignty extends from shore to shore. This departure from the traditional metrical psalmody of his time reflects Watts’s commitment to presenting the psalms in a manner accessible to Christian worshipers.

A Hymn of Mission and Hope

While “Jesus Shall Reign” may have coincided with the expansion of the British Empire, its enduring message transcends temporal boundaries. As one of the earliest mission hymns, it speaks to the universal scope of Christ’s redemptive work and the hope of a world transformed by his grace.

Through the imagery of prisoners finding freedom, the weary discovering rest, and the suffering receiving a blessing, the hymn paints a picture of Christ’s kingdom as a place of justice, peace, and abundant life. This vision resonates with the sermon’s theme of finding hope and healing despite suffering.

Scriptural Roots and Contemporary Relevance

Drawing upon the language of Psalm 72 and other biblical motifs, “Jesus Shall Reign” finds its scriptural foundation in the proclamation of Christ’s kingship. From the promise of his reign extending to the ends of the earth to the liberation and blessing experienced by his people, the hymn echoes the prophetic vision of a world redeemed by God’s grace.

As we sing “Jesus Shall Reign” in our worship service, we join with believers across time and space in proclaiming Christ’s lordship over all creation. May this hymn serve as a reminder of our hope in Christ, who reigns now and forevermore.

Embracing Christ’s Sovereignty

As we conclude our worship service with the organ postlude of “Jesus Shall Reign,” let us carry with us the assurance that Christ’s kingdom knows no bounds. In a world where suffering and pain may seem overwhelming, we find comfort in the promise that Jesus reigns supreme, bringing light and life to all who call upon his name.

As the final notes of the postlude fade, we are left with a profound sense of hope that lingers long after the service has ended. The music serves as a powerful reminder of the enduring message of Easter: that love conquers death, and new life dawns for those who believe. We carry this message with us, a melody of hope that continues to resonate in our hearts long after the last hymn.