Is Christ the Lord Is Risen Today a Funeral Hymn?
The hymn “Christ the Lord Is Risen Today” may not be traditionally associated with funeral services, as it is primarily recognized as an Easter anthem celebrating the resurrection of Jesus Christ. However, its triumphant message and the profound themes of victory over death make it a surprisingly fitting and uplifting choice for memorial services.
Why is Christ the Lord Is Risen Today a Suitable Funeral Hymn?
- Triumphant Message of Resurrection: The core theme of the hymn revolves around the triumphant resurrection of Christ, proclaiming victory over death. This powerful message can provide comfort and solace to mourners, shifting the focus from the earthly departure of a loved one to the eternal hope found in Christ’s resurrection. It encourages a celebration of the departed’s entrance into the joy of everlasting life.
- Elevated Spiritual Tone: “Christ the Lord Is Risen Today” carries an elevated spiritual tone, making it a hymn that instills a sense of reverence and awe. Its majestic melody and exultant lyrics elevate the atmosphere of a funeral service, providing a dignified backdrop for remembering and honoring the life of the departed.
- Encouragement for Christian Faith: For those who share Christian faith, this hymn serves as a powerful reminder of the central tenet of Christianity—the resurrection. The lyrics reinforce the belief in the eternal life promised through Christ, offering hope and encouragement to those grieving the loss of a loved one. It reassures mourners that death is not the end, but rather a transition to an everlasting existence.
- Community Participation and Unity: The hymn encourages congregational participation, allowing funeral attendees to join their voices in a communal expression of faith. The act of singing together fosters a sense of unity among mourners, creating a shared experience of worship and reflection. This collective participation can be a source of strength and support during a funeral service.
Christ the Lord Is Risen Today Lyrics
Christ the Lord is risen today, Alleluia!
Earth and heaven in chorus say, Alleluia!
Raise your joys and triumphs high, Alleluia!
Sing, ye heavens, and earth reply, Alleluia!
Love’s redeeming work is done, Alleluia!
Fought the fight, the battle won, Alleluia!
Death in vain forbids Him rise, Alleluia!
Christ has opened paradise, Alleluia!
Lives again our glorious King, Alleluia!
Where, O death, is now thy sting? Alleluia!
Once He died our souls to save, Alleluia!
Where thy victory, O grave? Alleluia!
Soar we now where Christ has led, Alleluia!
Following our exalted Head, Alleluia!
Made like Him, like Him we rise, Alleluia!
Ours the cross, the grave, the skies, Alleluia!
Hail the Lord of earth and heaven, Alleluia!
Praise to Thee by both be given, Alleluia!
Thee we greet triumphant now, Alleluia!
Hail the Resurrection, thou, Alleluia!
King of glory, Soul of bliss, Alleluia!
Everlasting life is this, Alleluia!
Thee to know, Thy power to prove, Alleluia!
Thus to sing, and thus to love, Alleluia!