Scripture: Isaiah 43:16-21, Luke 3:1-6, Isaiah 40:1

The words of Isaiah the prophet jump from the pages of this anthem as a celebration of God's promise to send aRedeemer. This is a good choice for the season of Advent or Lent as it asks the believer to 'prepare the way' for the arrival of Christ and the lectionary offers opportunities for these words of preparation to beincorporated into worship. The memorable harmonic progression on the words 'Comfort Ye my People' is a rich and expressive moment for the choir and gentle quiescent codetta is a restrained touch that adds an elegantfinale to this scripture based anthem of encouragement. Multiple usages!