Alive Forevermore [Original Sonnet for Resurrection Sunday]

I died—Behold me now! I am alive

forevermore, and in my hand the keys

of death and Hell to lock the door. The prize

is ours. For you I claimed this victory.

Thanks be to God! The sting of death is sin,

the strength of sin the law. To sin I died;

Now raised to life I live that life to Him.

By this God’s enemies are justified.

Were not I raised, your faith would be in vain,

most miserable of men! But you are saved

by grace, because I live and have attained

your triumph. Rise up—come forth from the grave!

I am the Resurrection and the Life.

Believe in me—believe and never die.