The people who walked in darkness
have seen a great light;
upon those who dwelt 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 the 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 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 judgment and justice,
both now and forever.
The zeal of the LORD of hosts will do this! Isaiah 9:1-6 This first reading from the Mass of the Nativity of Our Lord at midnight speaks of a people whose hope has been extinguished, who grope about in the darkness of despair. But into this situation is interjected a promise by God that a Light will come into the world that will dispel the darkness and bring unending joy to the people. For those of us who mourn the passing of Father Lazar, may the fulfillment of this promise that we celebrate during the Christmas season -- the entry into the world of the True Light, Jesus Christ -- give us peace, comfort us in our sorrow, and strengthen our hope as we look forward to our own entry into the Kingdom of Light. The zeal of the LORD of hosts will do this! A Blessed Christmas to all!
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