It seems like we've been facing death a lot lately at Grace Evan. It should come as no surprise; after all, everyone dies. But even though we're all very aware of the shockingly high mortality rate (100%), death always feels unnatural... and for good reason: It's not the way it's supposed to be, according to God's original, perfect creation.
But sin entered, and death is now a reality - a horrible reality that points us to the stunning holiness of our God and the utter seriousness of our sin against him.
This week's Song of the Week, however, reminds us of some very good news in the face of death: That, for the Christian, death is not the bitter end, but a sweet new beginning. Jesus has conquered the grave!
The song is called It Is Not Death To Die, and it's the last track from Sovereign Grace Music's album Come Weary Saints (click for the album's page, and to hear an extended sample. the song is also available from iTunes and Amazon). Here's the key line of the song's chorus: "Those who trust in You / will in Your mercy find / that it is not death to die."
May you find comfort, in life and in the face of death, as you meditate on the good news of Christ's redemption of sinners and his power over grave.
It Is Not Death to Die
Original Words by Henri Malan (1787-1864).
Translated by George Bethune (1847)
Music, Chorus, and Alternate Words by Bob Kauflin
It is not death to die
To leave this weary road
And join the saints who dwell on high
Who’ve found their home with God
It is not death to close
The eyes long dimmed by tears
And wake in joy before Your throne
Delivered from our fears
O Jesus, conquering the grave
Your precious blood has power to save
Those who trust in You
Will in Your mercy find
That it is not death to die
It is not death to fling
Aside this earthly dust
And rise with strong and noble wing
To live among the just
It is not death to hear
The key unlock the door
That sets us free from mortal years
To praise You evermore
O Jesus, conquering the grave
Your precious blood has power to save
Those who trust in You
Will in Your mercy find
That it is not death to die
