2 to announce the year when the Lord will show his favor,the day when our God will seek vengeance,to console all who mourn,
3 to strengthen those who mourn in Zion,by giving them a turban, instead of ashes,oil symbolizing joy, instead of mourning,a garment symbolizing praise, instead of discouragement.They will be called oaks of righteousness,trees planted by the Lord to reveal his splendor.
4 They will rebuild the perpetual ruinsand restore the places that were desolate; they will reestablish the ruined cities,the places that have been desolate since ancient times.
5 “Foreigners will take care of your sheep;foreigners will work in your fields and vineyards.
6 You will be called, ‘the Lord’s priests,servants of our God.’You will enjoy the wealth of nationsand boast about the riches you receive from them.
7 Instead of shame, you will get a double portion;instead of humiliation, they will rejoice over the land they receive.Yes, they will possess a double portion in their landand experience lasting joy.
8 For I, the Lord, love justiceand hate robbery and sin.I will repay them because of my faithfulness;I will make a permanent covenant with them.