Easter marks ‘Mission Accomplished’ on the most daring rescue operation in history.
It’s the story of Christ’s grim sacrifice and furious love. Author J.R.R Tolkien called it the ultimate Eucatastrophe, the sudden turn from disastrous defeat to victory and it’s a story that weary, battered hearts are desperately waiting to hear.
As I reflect on the week leading up to the cross, I find myself turning to music to prepare and realign my heart and mind on what it cost to be reconciled with God.
German philosopher and composer, Friedrich Nietzsche famously said of music:
“God has given us music so that above all it can lead us upwards. Music unites all qualities: it can exalt us, divert us, cheer us up, or break the hardest of hearts with the softest of its melancholy tones. But its principal task is to lead our thoughts to higher things, to elevate, even to make us tremble… The musical art often speaks in sounds more penetrating than the words of poetry, and takes hold of the most hidden crevices of the heart.”
Below are seven tracks that powerfully draw us into the story of Passion Week as we follow Christ’s path to the Cross and the Resurrection. As we walk in his steps, we’re reminded of the depth and breadth of His love for us, the driving force behind the ultimate sacrifice of crucifixion, only to rise from death and despair to life and victory once and for all.
“Man of Sorrows” by Shane & Shane – This powerful song highlights the suffering and sacrifice of Jesus on the cross, reminding us of the immense love and grace He showed us.
“How Deep the Father’s Love for Us” by Stuart Townend – This beautiful hymn speaks of the depth and richness of God’s love for us, demonstrated through the sacrifice of His Son on the cross.
“Jesus Paid It All” by Kristian Stanfill – This classic hymn reminds us that we are saved not by our own efforts, but by the perfect sacrifice of Jesus on the cross.
“In Christ Alone” by Keith and Kristyn Getty – This modern hymn beautifully captures the significance of Jesus’ death and resurrection, reminding us of the hope we have in Him.
“O Come to the Altar” by Elevation Worship – This song invites listeners to come to the altar of God, where we find forgiveness, healing, and restoration through the sacrifice of Jesus.
“When I Survey” by Chelsea Moon & Uncle Daddy – This powerful song reflects on the significance of the cross, reminding us of the victory Jesus won over sin and death through His sacrifice.
“Were You There” (traditional hymn) – This hauntingly beautiful hymn invites listeners to reflect on the events of Jesus’ crucifixion, reminding us of the gravity and significance of His sacrifice.
Consider again that the hope we have in Christ extends beyond this life. We can have confidence that we will one day be with Him in heaven, and that He will one day make all things new. As the apostle Paul wrote, “If Christ has not been raised, our preaching is useless and so is your faith. But Christ has indeed been raised from the dead” (1 Corinthians 15:14, 20).
So let’s take time to reflect on the reality of sin, the love that motivated Jesus to die for us, and the hope that we have in Him as we prepare to celebrate Easter. Let’s allow the truth of the Easter story to penetrate our hearts and transform us from the inside out.
Blessings to you all as we celebrate the victory of the resurrection!
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