As spring approaches, our minds turn to Easter and the Resurrection. The rejuvenation and rebirth that we see in our natural surroundings each year is a recurring reminder of the transformative power of the Resurrection. It reminds us that physical death is only temporary--a single step in an eternal process of sanctification. As we contemplate Easter, we must remember that it is only through Jesus Christ that we can overcome death and sin. Thus, the words spoken by the angels: "He is not here, for he is risen" ring just as strongly for us today as they did for those visited the empty tomb on that first Easter Sunday over two millennia ago.
This week's hymn of the week is a setting of the text "He is Risen" to the powerful "Ode to Joy" chorus from the finale of Beethoven's Ninth Symphony. Originally set to a poem about the love of an eternal Heavenly Father and the brotherhood of man, "Ode to Joy" is a tune that has reached the hearts of millions worldwide. What better way to celebrate the resurrection of Jesus Christ than with this powerful ode?