Because He Lives

This song was sung at my grandfather's funeral 15 years ago. I can't hear it without thinking of him and I think that I have liked it so well because it reminds me of him. Now it means more to me because I understand uncertain days and the necessity of the assurance that He holds the future. (On a side note, is there anything Biblical about saying that we cross the river when we die? Sounds like Styx to me...)

Because He Lives
Gloria and William J Gaither

God sent His Son - they called Him Jesus;
He came to love, heal and forgive.
He lived and died to buy my pardon;
An empty grave is there to prove my Savior lives.

Because He lives I can face tomorrow;
Because He lives, all fear is gone.
Because I know He holds the future,
And life is worth the living just because He lives.

How sweet to hold a newborn baby,
And feel the pride and joy he gives;
But greater still the calm assurance:
This child can face uncertain days because He lives.

And then one day I'll cross the river;
I'll fight life's final war with pain.
And then, as death gives way to vict'ry,
I'll see the lights of glory and I'll know He reigns.