A Song of the Messiah (Christmas)

1    The people who walked in darkness have seen a great light;  ♦

those who dwelt in a land of deep darkness,

    upon them the light has dawned.

2    You have increased their joy and given them great gladness;  ♦

they rejoiced before you as with joy at the harvest.

3    For you have shattered the yoke that burdened them;  ♦

the collar that lay heavy on their shoulders.

4    For to us a child is born and to us a son is given,  ♦

and the government will be upon his shoulder.

5    And his name will be called: Wonderful Counsellor;

    the Mighty God;  ♦

the Everlasting Father; the Prince of Peace.

6    Of the increase of his government and of peace  ♦

there will be no end,

7    Upon the throne of David and over his kingdom,  ♦

to establish and uphold it with justice and righteousness.

8    From this time forth and for evermore;  ♦

the zeal of the Lord of hosts will do this.

Isaiah 9.2,3b,4a,6,7

Glory to the Father and to the Son

and to the Holy Spirit;

as it was in the beginning is now

and shall be for ever. Amen.