Today, I've chosen to add another member of "nine lessons" to the Carol a Day project, the Sussex Carol. While I cannot find a suitable online source for the original publication (Small Garland of Pious and Godly Songs) by Luke Wadding, the work was mentioned in Sandys text, Christmas carols, ancient and modern. Wadding's publication was in the 1700's, but it was not until a chance observance of a performance by Ralph Williams in the early 1900's that we have the finished product you may or may not sing today.

It is very likely that without the "nine lessons" we would have lost this and many other carols. The Dean of King's College in Cambridge was inspired in the early 1900's to kick Christmas worship up a notch or two and studied some historical musical texts to come up with the format that is still used today (and has been broadcast by the BBC every year since 1928).

This carol has historically been a part of the third lesson which is based on Isaiah 9: 2, 6–7:

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 to us a child is born, to us a son is given; and the government shall be upon his shoulder, and his name shall be called Wonderful Counselor, Mighty God, Everlasting Father, Prince of Peace. Of the increase of his government and of peace there will be no end, on 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 forevermore. The zeal of the LORD of hosts will do this.

If you are looking for something different to do this Christmas day or eve (you know, mix it up a little), why not download this year's lessons and go through each scripture and musical selection (whether you are on your own or with family & friends). It is a beautiful telling of the Christmas story and a progressive reminder of God's love for us. You will have ample opportunity to sing praises to God, learn some new carols and experience the joy of Christmas in heart, mind and soul.