Why? Because He Lives

Since the first Sunday in Lent, I have been sharing various songs and hymns which celebrate Lent and the first Easter. Because of the first Easter and Jesus’ death on the cross followed by his resurrection, I have eternal life to look forward to when I leave this Earth. I will never understand how people who aren’t believers can wake up each morning totally uncertain of their future.

This song, written by Bill and Gloria Gaither in 1971, reminds me of why I have no need to fear what's coming next. 

God sent His son, they called Him, Jesus;

He came to love, heal and forgive;

He lived and died to buy my pardon,

An empty grave is there to prove my Savior lives!

Because He lives, I can face tomorrow,

Because He lives, all fear is gone;

Because I know He holds the future,

And life is worth the living,

Just because He lives!

How sweet to hold a newborn baby,

And feel the pride and joy he gives;

But greater still the calm assurance:

This child can face uncertain days because He Lives!

Because He lives, I can face tomorrow,

Because He lives, all fear is gone;

Because I know He holds the future,

And life is worth the living,

Just because He lives!

And then one day, I'll cross the river,

I'll fight life's final war with pain;

And then, as death gives way to victory,

I'll see the lights of glory and I'll know He lives!

Because He lives, I can face tomorrow,

Because He lives, all fear is gone;

Because I know He holds the future,

And life is worth the living,

Just because He lives!

This cross marks a grave at the Ottawa Avenue Cemetery in Ottawa, Illinois. Taken in April of 2016.