1. Listen to me, distant nations,you people who live far away!Before I was born, the Lord chose meand appointed me to be his servant.
2. He made my words as sharp as a sword.With his own hand he protected me.He made me like an arrow,sharp and ready for use.
3. He said to me, “Israel, you are my servant;because of you, people will praise me.”
4. I said, “I have worked, but how hopeless it is!I have used up my strength, but have accomplished nothing.”Yet I can trust the Lord to defend my cause;he will reward me for what I do.
5. Before I was born, the Lord appointed me;he made me his servant to bring back his people,to bring back the scattered people of Israel.The Lord gives me honour;he is the source of my strength.
6. The Lord said to me,“I have a greater task for you, my servant.Not only will you restore to greatnessthe people of Israel who have survived,but I will also make you a light to the nations —so that all the world may be saved.”