BECAUSE HE LIVES

We have just completed another Easter season and I hope that you have again been stirred by the story of Christ's death and resurrection and the impact it should have upon our lives.  This week's choice of a more recent hymn should remind us again of that impact.  As you are no doubt aware, Bill and Gloria Gather have had a major impact upon Gospel music during the past century.  Our lives have been touched in many ways by their ministry and music.  But they have experienced some rough times throughout their lives.  During the late 1960s, while expecting their third child, they went through a rather difficult time. While Bill was recovering from mononucleosis, he and Gloria and other members in their church family were the objects of false accusations and belittlement. It was a time of torment, especially for Gloria.  With all the challenges facing her family, the thought of bringing another child into the world was taking its toll on her. She recalls sitting in their living room in agony and fear on New Year's Eve. Across the nation the "God is dead" movement was increasing and drug abuse and racial tension were growing. But suddenly, and unexpectedly, she was filled with a sweet, calming peace. Like an attentive mother bending over her baby, it was as if her heavenly Father saw her and came to her rescue. Her panic gave way to a calmness and assurance and the realization that the future would be just fine, left in God's hands.  The power of Christ's resurrection was reaffirmed. To Gloria, it was "life conquering death" as joy once again permeated the fearful circumstances of their lives.  And this was how the Southern Gospel song, "Because He Lives."  came to be written.  The first verse reminds us of Christ's death, burial, and resurrection.  In the second verse we see the life of a new baby and sense the assurance that Christ alone can give. The third verse reminds us of the final victory when we are taken to glory.  So as we realize that God holds the future and makes life worth living for all who trust in Him, we can face tomorrow with all the uncertainty it brings.  And that is the power and truth of the Easter message. This message is even more powerful to me today as for the past two months I have followed the story of a close friend's 17 year old son who suddenly went from a healthy track star to an invalid, attacked by a deadly, unexpected disease. And on March 26 the Lord saw fit to take him home - a complete body transplant.  Channing's faith was in the Lord and because Christ rose and lives today, Channing now lives with Him in glory.  What a joy and peace that this truth gives to us today.  Because He lives, I can face tomorrow!

(1)    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.

(2)   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.

(3)   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!

Listen to it here.  LISTEN