As the Church around the world celebrates Easter—the triumph of life over death, light over darkness, and hope over despair—we are drawn into a mystery that spans centuries. A story not just preserved in Scripture, but carried in the hearts, songs, and prayers of the faithful across generations.
As we come to the close of the Lenten period into Easter, The First Hymn Project takes us on a journey into one of the oldest known Christian hymns. Discovered on a fragile piece of papyrus, this hymn carries the echoes of early resurrection worship.
Let All Be Silent…
Let all be silent:
The shining stars not sound forth
All rushing rivers stilled,
As we sing our hymn
To the Father, Son, and Holy Spirit.
In these ancient lines, we hear not just words—but awe. The early Church lifts its voice to the Trinity with reverence and devotion. This is no casual worship; it is raw, undistracted Easter worship that reflects the context of its time, allowing believers to engage deeply in their faith.
As All Powers Cry Out in Answer
Amen. Amen.
Might, praise, and glory forever
To God, the only Giver of all good gifts.
Amen. Amen.
In a world noisy with self and striving, early believers remind us that worship is not entertainment—it is surrender. This hymn ends with a doxology, a declaration of praise to God not just for what He has done, but for who He is: the source of every good gift, the Risen One who defeated death, and the Giver of life itself.
Why the First Hymn Matters Today
This hymn, likely sung in whispered gatherings and candlelit homes, reminds us that resurrection has always inspired worship. Not just in cathedral choirs, but in caves, homes, prisons, and hearts.
These early believers sang because they knew what we must never forget: Easter is not just a day. It is a way of living as a new creation. Jesus is the centre of all human history and, as Scripture says, “in Him we live and move and have our being” (Acts 17:28 NKJV).
To Sing. To Worship. To Live in Resurrection Hope.
This Easter, we invite you to reflect, sing, and wonder. Let these ancient words call you into stillness, praise, and worship. Let Easter not just pass through our calendars as a long weekend, but lift our hearts in thanksgiving to God, the giver of all good gifts.
Amen.
Have you thought about becoming a qualified counsellor? It’s a great opportunity to learn how you can extend God's love and grace to the hurting out in the community.
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