Low in the grave they had buried Christ the Savior;
Dark was the night round the silent guarded tomb,
But with the dawn came a glow of heav’nly splendor
Glory filled the earth dispelling gloom.

Refrain

Wake, sweetest strains of music!
Telling out the story
How from death the Savior rose
To live forevermore.
Wake, sweetest strains of music!
Drive away all sadness
Let your anthems ring from shore to shore.

Close to the tomb were the soldiers vigil keeping,
When from above came a form of dazzling light,
Then He arose from the grave a mighty Victor
Angels welcomed Him in robes of white.

Refrain

Joy to the world, let this day be filled with gladness—
Wake sweetest strains join this happy Easter song,
Peace shall abide for the grave has lost its terror
Christ is risen—let His praise prolong.

Refrain