Light in Our Darkness

Light in Our Darkness
Epiphany 3; Isaiah 9:1-4, Matthew 4:12-25
(for the Sunday between 22 January, the National Day of Mourning for those killed in the Hannukah terrorist attack and 26 January, Australia Day, also commemorated as Survival Day or Invasion Day)
In the light of the prophecy’s words,
Matthew said: Jesus came as the light
that would dawn on the land by the sea
to fulfil what Isaiah had dreamed.

There the gloom would be gone from their souls,
light would shine in the darkness of grief
and the anguish of ancient contempt
would be lifted and turned into joy.

Galilee of the nations, rejoice!
He makes glorious the way of the sea,
for he breaks the oppressor’s harsh rod
and the yoke of their burden grows light.

Jesus, come to our land by the sea
which is darkened by grief and contempt:
nation mourning a terror attack,
15 dead of a long-nurtured hate.

Violence rooted in conflict abroad –
it’s too easy to pass on the blame.
In Australia, invaders were white,
with their guns and their arrogant claims.

Can we celebrate national pride
on a day when First Nations must mourn:
British flag raised, ignoring their rights
swept aside by ignored genocide?

Hidden truths we must bring to the light.
Sorry Day lit a candle soon snuffed:
referendum defeated, hope lost,
racist hate shouts abuse in our streets.

Jesus come to our land by the sea
that is darkened by violence and grief!
Bring good news, teach and heal our disease,
open ears so hard stories are heard!
	Barbara Messner 22/01/2026