Isaiah 61

The Year When the Lord Sets His People Free 1The Spirit of the LORD and King is on me. The LORD has anointed me to announce good news to poor people. He has sent me to comfort those whose hearts have been broken. He has sent me to announce freedom for those who have been captured. He wants me to set prisoners free from their dark cells.

2He has sent me to announce the year when he will set his people free. He wants me to announce the day when he will pay his enemies back. Our God has sent me to comfort all those who are sad.

3He wants me to help those in Zion who are filled with sorrow. I will put beautiful crowns on their heads in place of ashes. I will anoint them with olive oil to give them joy instead of sorrow. I will give them a spirit of praise in place of a spirit of sadness. They will be like oak trees that are strong and straight. The LORD himself will plant them in the land. That will show how glorious he is.

4They will rebuild the places that were destroyed long ago. They will repair the buildings that have been broken down for many years. They will make the destroyed cities like new again. They have been broken down for a very long time.

5Outsiders will serve you by taking care of your flocks. People from other lands will work in your fields and vineyards.

6You will be called priests of the LORD . You will be named workers for our God. You will enjoy the wealth of nations. You will brag about getting their riches.

7Instead of being put to shame you will receive a double share of wealth. Instead of being dishonored you will be glad to be in your land. You will receive a double share of riches there. And you’ll be filled with joy that will last forever.

8The LORD says, “I love those who do what is right. I hate it when people steal and do other sinful things. So I will be faithful to my people. And I will bless them. I will make a covenant with them that will last forever.

9Their children after them will be famous among the nations. Their families will be praised by people everywhere. All those who see them will agree that I have blessed them.”

10The people of Jerusalem will say, “We take great delight in the LORD . We are joyful because we belong to our God. He has dressed us with salvation as if it were our clothes. He has put robes of godliness on us. We are like a groom who is dressed up for his wedding. We are like a bride who decorates herself with her jewels. 11The soil makes the young plant come up. A garden causes seeds to grow. In the same way, the LORD and King will make godliness grow. And all the nations will praise him.”