1. This is what the Lord says:‘Heaven is my throne,and the earth is my footstool.Where is the house you will build for me?Where will my resting place be?
2. Has not my hand made all these things,and so they came into being?’declares the Lord.‘These are the ones I look on with favour:those who are humble and contrite in spirit,and who tremble at my word.
3. But whoever sacrifices a bullis like one who kills a person,and whoever offers a lambis like one who breaks a dog’s neck;whoever makes a grain offeringis like one who presents pig’s blood,and whoever burns memorial incenseis like one who worships an idol.They have chosen their own ways,and they delight in their abominations;
4. so I also will choose harsh treatment for themand will bring on them what they dread.For when I called, no one answered,when I spoke, no one listened.They did evil in my sightand chose what displeases me.’
5. Hear the word of the Lord,you who tremble at his word;‘Your own people who hate you,and exclude you because of my name, have said,“Let the Lord be glorified,that we may see your joy!”Yet they will be put to shame.
6. Hear that uproar from the city,hear that noise from the temple!It is the sound of the Lordrepaying his enemies all they deserve.
7. ‘Before she goes into labour,she gives birth;before the pains come upon her,she delivers a son.