2 He has sent me to announce the time when the Lord will show his kindnessand the time when our God will punish evil people.He has sent me to comfort all those who are sad.
3 He has sent me to the sorrowing people of Jerusalem.I will give them a crown to replace their ashes.I will give them the oil of gladness to replace their sorrow.I will give them clothes of praise to replace their spirit of sadness.Then they will be called Trees of Goodness.They will be like trees planted by the Lord and will show his greatness.
4 They will rebuild the old ruins.They will build up the places destroyed long ago.They will repair the ruined citiesthat were destroyed for so long.
5 My people, foreigners will come to tend your sheep.People from other countries will tend your vineyards.
6 You will be called priests of the Lord.You will be named the servants of our God.You will have riches from all the nations on earth.And you will take pride in them.
7 Instead of being ashamed, you will receive twice as much wealth.Instead of being disgraced, you will be happy because of what you receive.You will receive a double share of the land.So your happiness will continue forever.
8 The Lord says, “I love justice.I hate stealing and everything that is wrong.I will be fair and give my people what they should have.I will make an agreement with them that will continue forever.