The people who walked in darkness
have seen a great light;
those who dwelt in a land of deep darkness,
on them light has shined.
You have multiplied the nation,
you have increased its joy;
they rejoice before you,
as with joy at the harvest,
as they are glad when they divide the spoil.
For the yoke of his burden,
and the staff of his shoulder,
the rod of his oppressor,
you have broken as on the day of Midian.
For every boot of the tramping warrior in battle tumult
and every garment rolled in blood
will be burned as fuel for the fire.
For to us a child is born,
to us a son is given;
and the government shall be upon his shoulder,
and his name shall be called
Wonderful, Counselor, Mighty God,
Everlasting, Father, Prince of Peace.
Of the increase of his government and of peace
there will be no end,
on the throne of David and over his kingdom,
to establish it and to uphold it
with justice and with righteousness
from this time forth and forevermore.
The zeal of the Lord of hosts will do this. (Isaiah 9: 2-7)


Merry Christmas!