Truly He Is Risen

The devil thought he’d won it when they laid Christ in the tomb,

His plot to kill Messiah and to spread hate, death, and gloom.

But God Almighty had a plan, and to our foe’s surprise,

Our lord got up in glory, out of the grave to rise!

Now Jesus had told his followers that he would one day suffer,

Be mocked and beaten, crucified–his cross, there was no other

Who could redeem all mankind and restore God’s wondrous grace.

He would be marred and smitten, so we could not know his face.

This loving Son who traveled round, healing as he went,

Freeing captives, full of joy–he knew His Father sent

Him to fulfill the law, and make us free indeed,

So that we can be born again of God’s incorruptible seed.

He said that just as Jonah had for three days and three nights

Lain in the sea creature’s stomach–lifeless, lost from sight,

So he would lay within the heart, of the grave, quiet and cold.

But God would raise him from the dead to life, as he’d been told!

As Wednesday closed and sunset neared, Joseph claimed his lord,

And brought his body to a tomb to carry out the Word.

Then sealed by those who feared him, to stop what they called “lies,”

God’s power busted it open, before the guards’ stunned eyes!

When Mary came and Peter, and others to the grave,

They found that it was empty, just the wrappings where they lay,

And angels said he’d risen, and then Jesus spoke with them,

In his new body, gloriously, he’d conquered death and sin!

Later he ascended, and on Pentecost it came,

The promised holy spirit, to comfort in his place.

And now we claim our Father’s help, released from every prison

By the work of His dear Son, for truly “He is Risen!”