Page 14 - The Wondrous Cross - CD Booklet

8. The People who in Darkness Walked
Our second carol is an Advent carol. John Morison (1750–1798) was born in
Aberdeen and became Parish Minister of Canisbay in Caithness. In his lifetime
he wrote a number of hymns. This carol paraphrases the famous prophetic text of
Isaiah 9:1-7. Here, we are reminded of the baby, our Lord and Saviour, entering
this world bringing light and hope to a world that is dark and lost.

The tune it is often sung to is ‘Dundee’ from the Scottish Psalter of 1615. My
version is for choir only. It starts in the minor key as we are reminded of our
walking in darkness. This soon changes to a more positive note with the arrival
of the glorious light. The original tune in minor now returns in a major form.
It enters softly to mirror the unassuming birth. However, this quickly develops
until we reach double choir rising to forte reflecting the eventual far reaching
impact of this birth. It seemed fitting to finish with an emphatic ‘Amen’ as we
acknowledge the profound nature of this text.
The people who in darkness walked His name shall be the prince of peace,
have seen a glorious light: eternally adored;
that light shines out on those who lived most wonderful of counsellors,
in shadows of the night. the great and mighty Lord.
To greet you, Sun of righteousness, His peace and righteous government
the gathering nations come; shall over all extend;
rejoicing as when reapers bring on judgement and on justice based,
their harvest treasures home. his reign shall never end.

For now to us a child is born, Words: Jubilate Hymns version of 'The race
to us a son is given; that long in darkness pined', John Morrison
and on his shoulder ever rests (1750-1798) © Jubilate Hymns Ltd.
all power in earth and heaven. Music: © Peter Burton 2019.