Nations That Long in Darkness Walked

I must confess that I did not know about this carol until this year, but now that I do, it is quickly becoming one of my favorites. The lyrics paraphrase many of the Messianic passages of Isaiah and remind us that the birth of Jesus has signaled the beginning of his perfect and everlasting kingdom. If you want to hear the song, Jill Phillips and Andy Gullahorn have included a marvelous version on their album, "Christmas."

Nations that long in darkness walked
Have now beheld a glorious light;
On them who dwelt in shades of death
The light hath shinèd heav’nly bright.

For lo! the virgin’s Child is born;
To us the Son of God is giv’n.
Upon His shoulders shall be laid
The government of earth and Heav’n.

His Name is callèd Wonderful,
The Counselor, the mighty God,
Eternal Father, Prince of Peace,
Peace dearly purchased with His blood.

His government shall know no bounds,
But far and wide o’er all extend;
And happy peace, the glorious fruits
Of His just reign, shall know no end.

O’er David’s kingdom, on His throne
To rule, and ’stablish it secure
With judgment clear, and justice right;
His reign forever shall endure.

Written by John Barnard, 1752