He is not here! He is risen!

It looked like Christmas Day this morning as All Souls was surrounded by what could only be described as a British blizzard (i.e. some relatively light snow flurries – see left!). But no matter – because it was a bright morning nevertheless. For today we remember that first Easter. And we do it in common with countless millions around the world (eg this Iraqi guard who is a member of the persecuted Christian minority in that country – from BBC Online). As the risen Christ said loud and clear to the persecuted Apostle John, because he is alive, we can have hope. Amen! Alleluia!

Do not be afraid. I am the First and the Last. I am the Living One; I was dead, and behold I am alive for ever and ever! And I hold the keys of death and Hades. Revelation 1:17-18

We sang Townend & Getty’s fantastic Easter song which frankly says it all.

SEE WHAT A MORNING, gloriously bright,
With the dawning of hope in Jerusalem;
Folded the grave-clothes,
Tomb filled with light,
As the angels announce Christ is risen!
See God’s salvation plan, wrought in love, Borne in pain, paid in sacrifice,
Fulfilled in Christ, the Man, for He lives:
Christ is risen from the dead!

See Mary weeping, ‘Where is He laid?’
As in sorrow she turns from the empty tomb;
Hears a voice speaking, calling her name;
It’s the Master, the Lord raised to life again!
The voice that spans the years,
Speaking life, stirring hope,
Bringing peace to us,
Will sound till He appears,
For He lives, Christ is risen from the dead!

One with the Father, Ancient of Days,
Through the Spirit
Who clothes faith with certainty,
Honour and blessing, glory and praise
To the King crowned
With power and authority!
And we are raised with Him,
Death is dead, love has won,
Christ has conquered;
And we shall reign with Him,
For He lives, Christ is risen from the dead!

Keith Getty & Stuart Townend
Copyright © 2003 Thankyou Music

Click here for a brief clip courtesy of Kingsway music!

Christ is risen! He is risen indeed! Alleluia!