2 to proclaim the year of the Lord’s favorand a day of vindication for our God,to comfort all who mourn,
3 to provide for Zion’s mourners,to give them a crown in place of ashes,oil of joy in place of mourning,a mantle of praise in place of discouragement.They will be called Oaks of Righteousness,planted by the Lord to glorify himself.
4 They will rebuild the ancient ruins;they will restore formerly deserted places;they will renew ruined cities,places deserted in generations past.
5 Foreigners will stay and shepherd your sheep,and strangers will be your farmers and vinedressers.
6 You will be called The Priests of the Lord;Ministers of Our God, they will say about you.You will feed on the wealth of nations,and fatten yourself on their riches.
7 Instead of shame, their portion will be double;instead of disgrace, they will rejoice over their share.They will possess a double portion in their land;everlasting joy will be theirs.
8 I, the Lord, love justice;I hate robbery and dishonesty.I will faithfully give them their wage,and make with them an enduring covenant.