HYMN STORIES: The Songs We Sing

“Christ the Lord is Risen Today”

  For many in the world, Easter Day is associated with singing Christ the Lord Is Risen Today by Charles Wesley (1707–1788). Each Easter, we retell the story and re-remember the experience of the Resurrection as if we were present.  Christ the Lord Is Risen Today is not a narrative hymn. It does not recount the events that led up to or followed the resurrection of Christ. It is a deeply theological hymn that celebrates the Resurrection with emotion and passion, pointing ultimately to the significance of this singular event for humanity.

The reference to sons of men and angels is a declaration that Christ’s resurrection is a cause for a much celebration on earth and in heaven. This celebration is for us and the angels. The addition ofAlleluias at the end of each line, transforms the singing of Wesley’s text from an expression of human understanding to a heavenly experience.  On the one hand, Alleluia breaks up each line, somewhat breaking the flow of thought. On the other, an  Alleluia   interjection offers the singer time to absorb the power of each line.  With the singing of an Alleluia, both earthly and heavenly beings now join in a unison Alleluia!

Read the 4th stanza -  

Soar we, now, where Christ has led?
Following our exalted Head,
Made like Him, like Him we rise,
Ours the cross--the grave--the skies!

The dashes cause the singer to pause and contemplate the great distance between each point; the cross of Christ, the tomb of Christ and His accension.  The exclamation mark completes this celebrational hymn with declarative praise!

He is Risen, He is Risen indeed!   Happy Easter

Shared by Lindrew Johnson, Director of Worship