Isaiah 9:1-6

(Have seen a great light)

The people who walked in darkness 
    have seen a great light; 
Upon those who lived in a land of gloom 
    a light has shone. 
You have brought them abundant joy 
    and great rejoicing; 
They rejoice before you as people rejoice at harvest, 
    as they exult when dividing the spoils. 
For the yoke that burdened them, 
    the pole on their shoulder, 
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 fire. 
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, 
Upon David’s throne, and over his kingdom, 
    which he confirms and sustains 
By judgment and justice, 
    both now and forever. 
The zeal of the Lord of hosts will do this! 