1 Blessed be the God of Israel
who comes to set us free
and raises up new hope for us:
a branch from David's tree.
So have the prophets long declared
that with a mighty arm
God would turn back our enemies
and all who wish us harm.
2 With promised mercy will God still
the covenant recall,
the oath once sworn to Abraham,
from foes to save us all,
that we might worship without
fear and offer lives of praise,
in holiness and righteousness
to serve God all our days.
3 My child, as prophet of the Lord
you will prepare the way,
to tell God's people they are saved
from sin's eternal sway.
Then shall God's mercy from on high
shine forth and never cease
to drive away the gloom of death
and lead us into peace.
