Isaiah 40

A change of tone. Many Bible scholars believe there was a change of authors from chapter 40 on.

Regardless, George F. Handel included much of this chapter in his oratorio, Messiah. In fact, this passage begins the musical work immediately following the overture. It identifies John the Baptist as being “the voice crying in the wilderness, prepare ye the way of the Lord.”

This passage provides text for some, in my opinion, of the most beautiful music ever. Have a listen to the soprano identify our Great Shepherd, Jesus.