This reading, familiar to many from Christmas services and music, is a joyful hymn for the birth or enthronement of a new king, a descendant of David. Isaiah prophesies the coming of a great light to people living in darkness. This king will usher in a reign of peace, justice and righteousness, reflected in the titles he is given.

In the prophecies that anticipate the birth of Jesus and in the Nativity narratives, Jesus is given many names. On Christmas Day, we celebrate and proclaim many of these and reflect on their significance and power for ourselves and for our world.