And she brought forth her firstborn son, and wrapped him in swaddling clothes, and laid him in a manger; because there was no room for them in the inn.
Ariadne, I like your quotation and like it even more when it becomes a wonderful solo in The Messiah. For myself, I would choose the Beatitudes as my favourite passage in the New Testament.
Isaiah 40:31 "But they (that wait upon the Lord) shall renew their strength; they shall mount up with wings as eagles; they shall run, and not be weary; and they shall walk and not faint". As often quoted by my mother. Still makes me feel strong writing swiping it down.
Mine is the same as Jinglebellsfrocks Peace I leave with you, my peace I give unto you. Not as the world giveth, give I unto you. Let not your heart be troubled, neither let it be afraid.
I read this on an architects headstone and have liked it ever since, it's from Hebrews 'For he looked for a city without foundations, whose builder and maker is God'.
I also like 'Greater love hath no man, than he lay his life down for another'.
"Come to Me, all you who labor and are heavy laden, and I will give you rest. Take My yoke upon you and learn from Me, for I am gentle and lowly in heart, and you will find rest for your souls. For My yoke is easy and My burden is light." Matthew 11