CHRIST JESUS LAY IN DEATH’S STRONG BANDS.

Christ Jesus lay in death’s strong bands
For our offenses given;
But now at God’s right hand He stands,
And brings us life from heaven;
Wherefore let us joyful be,
And sing to God right thankfully
Loud songs of Alleluia! Alleluia!

It was a strange and dreadful strife
When life and death contended;
The victory remained with life;
The reign of death was ended;
Stripped of power, no more he reigns,
An empty form alone remains;
His sting is lost forever! Alleluia!

So let us keep the festival
Whereto the Lord invites us;
Christ is Himself the joy of all,
The Sun that warms and lights us;
By His grace He doth impart
Eternal sunshine to the heart;
The night of sin is ended! Alleluia!

Then let us feast this Easter Day
On the true bread of heaven;
The Word of grace hath…