Canticle of Zachary =================== w&m: Michael Joncas, 1981 [Verse 1] Blest be the God of Israel, The everliving Lord, Who comes in pow'r to save his own, His people Israel. For Israel he raises up Salvation's tow'r on high In David's house who reigned as king And servant of the Lord. [Verse 2] Through holy prophets did he speak His Word in days of old, That he would save us from our foes And all who bear us ill. To our ancestors did he give His covenant of love, So with us all he keeps his Word In love that knows no end. [Verse 3] Of old he gave his solemn oath To Father Abraham; His seed a mighty race should be And blest for evermore. He vowed to set his people free From fear of ev'ry foe, That we might serve him all our days In goodness, love, and peace. [Verse 4] O tiny child, your name shall be The prophet of the Lord; The way of God you shall prepare To make his coming known. You shall proclaim to Israel Salvation's dawning day, When God shall wipe away all sins In his redeeming love. [Verse 5] The rising sun shall shine on us To bring the light of day To all who dwell in darkest night And shadow of the grave. Our footsteps God shall safely guide To walk the ways of peace; His name forever more be blest, Who lives and loves and saves.