A Brand New Day

December 25, 2018 (167 words)

The people who walked in darkness have seen a great light; upon those who dwell in the land of gloom a light has shone.

You have brought them abundant joy and great rejoicing, as they rejoice before you as at a harvest, as people make merry when dividing spoils.

For the yoke that burdened them, the pole on their shoulder, and the rod of their taskmaster you have smashed, as on the day of Midian.

For every boot that tramped in battle, every cloak rolled in blood, will be burned as fuel for flames.

For a child is born to us, a son is given to us; upon his shoulder dominion rests.

They name him Wonder-Counselor, God-Hero, Father-Forever, Prince of Peace.

His dominion is vast and forever peaceful, from David’s throne, and over his kingdom, which he confirms and sustains by judgement and justice, both now and forever.

Isaiah 9:1-6
(b. 8th century BC, d. 7th century BC)

Robert J. Cavanaugh, Jr.
December 25, 2018