Easter Poems: Celebrating the Resurrection

As springtime blossoms and the world awakens from its winter slumber, Easter arrives to fill our hearts with hope and joy. Easter is a time of renewal, a celebration of the resurrection of Jesus Christ. Poetry has long been a powerful medium to express the profound emotions and spiritual significance of this holy occasion. In this article, we explore a handful of beautiful Easter poems that capture the essence of resurrection and the triumph of life over death.

1. "Easter Wings" by George Herbert

Lord, who createdst man in wealth and store,
Though foolishly he lost the same,
Decaying more and more,
Till he became
Most poore:
With thee
Oh let me rise
As larks, harmoniously,
And sing this day thy victories:
Then shall the fall further the flight in me.

George Herbert's "Easter Wings" is a visually striking poem that takes the shape of two wings on the page. It explores the fall and redemption of mankind, symbolizing the resurrection as a spiritual ascent. The poem's structure mirrors the idea of rising above our earthly troubles and celebrating the victory of Christ's resurrection.

2. "The Tomb of Christ" by John Greenleaf Whittier

This is the spot:—how cold
And lone it looks—the wound
Which pierced the Saviour's side remains:
The very ground is holy ground.

John Greenleaf Whittier's "The Tomb of Christ" transports readers to the somber yet sacred atmosphere surrounding Jesus' tomb. With simple yet evocative language, the poem invites readers to reflect on the immense significance of the resurrection and the transformation it brings.

3. "Easter Morning" by A.E. Housman

Oh, never a doubt but, somewhere,
I shall wake, and find you gone.
The garden's overgrown.
But I shall stand and call you by your name.
I shall stand and wait
Till you come.

In "Easter Morning," A.E. Housman captures a sense of longing and anticipation. The poem speaks to the faith that, even in the face of absence and uncertainty, there is a profound trust in the resurrection and the promise of reunion.

4. "Easter Morning" by Gerard Manley Hopkins

I have looked down the saddest city lane.
I have passed by the watchman on his beat
And dropped my eyes, unwilling to explain.
I have stood still and stopped the sound of feet
When far away an interrupted cry
Came over houses from another street,
But not to call me back or say good-bye;
And further still at an unearthly height,
A luminary clock against the sky
Proclaimed the time was neither wrong nor right.

Gerard Manley Hopkins' "Easter Morning" captures the atmosphere of a city on the brink of resurrection. The poem paints a vivid picture of the world awakening to the miracle of Easter, where the mundane is transformed and time becomes insignificant.

These Easter poems offer glimpses into the profound significance of the resurrection and the hope it brings. Through their eloquent words, these poets remind us that Easter is not merely a holiday but a spiritual journey of redemption, renewal, and ultimate triumph. Let these poems inspire you to reflect on the true meaning of Easter and celebrate the joyous resurrection.