The people that walked in darkness have seen a great light: they that dwell in the land of the shadow of death, upon them hath the light shined.
Isaiah 9:2
Words: Unknown author (Ὁ οὐρανὸς καὶ ἡ γῆ σήμερον προφητικῶς εὐφραινέσθωσαν). Translated from Greek to English by John Brownlie, Hymns of the Greek Church (Edinburgh, Scotland & London: Oliphant, Anderson & Ferrier, 1900), page 32.
Music: Viggo Viggo Kalhauge (1840–1905) (🔊 pdf nwc).
In the bliss of old predicted,
Heav’n and earth to-day rejoice;
Men and angels, one in spirit,
Shout aloud in gleeful voice;
For, to those in darkness drear,
God in human flesh is near.
Cave and manger show the mystery;
Shepherds tell the wondrous tale;
Bearing gifts to lay before Him
From the east the Magi hail;
Taught by angel words to sing,
We unworthy praises bring.
Glory be to God eternal!
Peace on earth its reign begin!
For the one Desire of nations
Comes to save us from our sin;
Freedom He will now bestow
From the bondage of the foe.