Ode 5. Irmos.

‘The universe was amazed at your divine glory, for you, O Virgin, who knew not wedlock held in your womb the God over all and gave birth to an eternal Son, who gives salvation as the prize to all who hymn you.’

Mankind gone far from God the Word of God took pity one and appeared as a man; and by divine Baptism he made it his own and brought it back to its original dignity.

Now you are coming, Giver of life, to restore to life in Jordan’s streams, us who had been declared dead by our transgressions; therefore we faithfully glorify your present Appearing and ineffable mercy.

O the astonishment of every soul as it considers your dread dispensation! How, you, who are clothed in light, wishing to refashion all things, are coming to go naked into the streams of a river?