1. The Spirit of the Sovereign lord is upon me,for the lord has anointed meto bring good news to the poor.He has sent me to comfort the brokenheartedand to proclaim that captives will be releasedand prisoners will be freed.
2. He has sent me to tell those who mournthat the time of the lord’s favor has come,and with it, the day of God’s anger against their enemies.
3. To all who mourn in Israel,he will give a crown of beauty for ashes,a joyous blessing instead of mourning,festive praise instead of despair.In their righteousness, they will be like great oaksthat the lord has planted for his own glory.
4. They will rebuild the ancient ruins,repairing cities destroyed long ago.They will revive them,though they have been deserted for many generations.
5. Foreigners will be your servants.They will feed your flocksand plow your fieldsand tend your vineyards.
6. You will be called priests of the lord,ministers of our God.You will feed on the treasures of the nationsand boast in their riches.
7. Instead of shame and dishonor,you will enjoy a double share of honor.You will possess a double portion of prosperity in your land,and everlasting joy will be yours.