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Published online by Cambridge University Press: 02 April 2024
(A sermon given at an ecumenical peace service in Brighton on 17 February 1984)
Sometime in October last year, President Reagan gave the following little homily on the scriptures to a Jewish acquaintance: “You know, I turn back to your ancient prophets in the Old Testament and the signs foretelling Armageddon, and I find myself wondering if—if we’re the generation that is going to see that come about. I don’t know if you’ve noted any of these prophecies lately, but, believe me, they certainly describe the times we’re going through.” You know, I think he’s right—that is, apart from confusing the Book of Revelation with the Hebrew prophets.
“The people who walked in darkness have seen a great light; those who dwelt in a land of deep darkness, on them has light shined... For every boot of the tramping warrior in battle tumult and every garment rolled in blood will be burned as fuel for the fire. For unto us a child is born, unto us a son is given; and the government will be upon his shoulder and his name will be called, ‘Wonderful, Counsellor, Mighty God, Everlasting Father, Prince of Peace’. Of the increase of his government and of peace there will be no end, upon the throne of David, and over his kingdom, to establish it, and to uphold it with justice and with righteousness from this time forth and for evermore.” (Isaiah 9. 2—7).
Until recently these words did nothing more for me than bring back nostalgic memories of Handel’s Messiah from my childhood.
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