Isaiah 9:2-7

War Is Over

2 Those who walked in the dark

have seen a bright light.

And it shines upon everyone

who lives in the land

of darkest shadows.

3 Our Lord, you have made

your nation stronger.

f 9.3 stronger: Or “happy” or “larger.”

Because of you, its people

are glad and celebrate

like workers at harvest time

or like soldiers dividing up

what they have taken.

4 You have broken the power

of those who abused

and enslaved your people.

You have rescued them

just as you saved your people

from Midian.

g 9.4 rescued ... from Midian: The time when Gideon defeated the people of Midian in Jezreel Valley (see Judges 6-8).

5 The boots of marching warriors

and the blood-stained uniforms

have been fed to flames

and eaten by fire.

A Child Has Been Born

6 A child has been born for us.

We have been given a son

who will be our ruler.

His names will be

Wonderful Advisor

and Mighty God,

Eternal Father

and Prince of Peace.

7 His power will never end;

peace will last forever.

He will rule David's kingdom

and make it grow strong.

He will always rule

with honesty and justice.

The Lord All-Powerful

will make certain

that all of this is done.