25 Days of Advent: Break Forth, O Beauteous Heavenly Light

This is a less common Christmas hymn; in fact, I don't know that I've ever sung it in a church service. It's an oldie, with both the words and original music dating to 1641. There are other verses, but from what I could gather, only this first one is original:

Break Forth, O Beauteous Heavenly Light

Break forth, O beauteous heavenly light

And usher in the morning.

O shepherds, shrink not with affright

But hear the angel's warning.

This child, now weak in infancy

Our confidence and joy shall be;

The power of Satan breaking,

Our peace eternal making.

That's lovely, isn't it? The baby born at Christmas became Christ on the cross. His love and sacrifice are our confidence in eternal life and joy in reunion with God. He broke the power of hell and canceled death for us, his brothers and sisters adopted into the family of God. Jesus will reign in peace forever, just as Isaiah prophesied:

For to us a child is born,

to us a son is given,

and the government will be on his shoulders.

And he will be called

Wonderful Counselor, Mighty God,

Everlasting Father, Prince of Peace.

Of the greatness of his government and peace there will be no end.

Isaiah 9:6-7