First Lesson: Isaiah 52:7-10

Theme: God’s mercy to redeem and might to reign

Exegetical Note
The prophet, probably celebrating a return from exile, proclaims the same good news that will resound again and again in ages to come: God has returned to rule in mercy and might, bringing peace, goodness, comfort and salvation.

Call to Worship
Leader: How welcome is the person who brings us good news, especially the kind that both comforts us and gladdens our hearts!
People: THAT IS JUST THE SORT OF NEWS WE HEAR THIS DAY, A HAPPY MESSAGE OF PEACE AND JOY AND SALVATION.
Leader: For God has come in mercy to redeem and in might to rule.
People: LET US AND ALL NATIONS TO THE ENDS OF THE EARTH SING TOGETHER FOR JOY, FOR IN THE BIRTH OF A CHILD OUR GOD REIGNS!

Collect
O mighty and merciful God, who …