1. The Spirit of the Sovereign Lord is on me,because the Lord has anointed meto proclaim good news to the poor.He has sent me to bind up the broken-hearted,to proclaim freedom for the captivesand release from darkness for the prisoners,
2. to proclaim the year of the Lord’s favourand the day of vengeance of our God,to comfort all who mourn,
3. and provide for those who grieve in Zion –to bestow on them a crown of beautyinstead of ashes,the oil of joyinstead of mourning,and a garment of praiseinstead of a spirit of despair.They will be called oaks of righteousness,a planting of the Lordfor the display of his splendour.
4. They will rebuild the ancient ruinsand restore the places long devastated;they will renew the ruined citiesthat have been devastated for generations.
5. Strangers will shepherd your flocks;foreigners will work your fields and vineyards.