Christmas Eve – The Nativity of the Lord – Vigil: 1st Reading

Isaiah 62:1-5

For Zion’s sake I will not be silent,
      for Jerusalem’s sake I will not be quiet,
   until her vindication shines forth like the dawn
      and her victory like a burning torch.

   Nations shall behold your vindication,
      and all the kings your glory;
   you shall be called by a new name
      pronounced by the mouth of the LORD.
   You shall be a glorious crown in the hand of the LORD,
      a royal diadem held by your God.
   No more shall people call you “Forsaken,”
      or your land “Desolate,”
   but you shall be called “My Delight,”
      and your land “Espoused.”
   For the LORD delights in you
      and makes your land his spouse.
   As a young man marries a virgin,
      your Builder shall marry you;
   and as a bridegroom rejoices in his bride
      so shall your God rejoice in you.