I first decreed to Zion, ‘Look, here’s what will happen!’ I sent a herald to Jerusalem.

“A protector comes to Zion, to those in Jacob who repent of their rebellious deeds,” says the Lord.

“The Lord who rules over all says, ‘I am very much concerned for Zion; indeed, I am so concerned for her that my rage will fall on those who hurt her.’

I commission you as my spokesman; I cover you with the palm of my hand, to establish the sky and to found the earth, to say to Zion, ‘You are my people.’”

How delightful it is to see approaching over the mountains the feet of a messenger who announces peace, a messenger who brings good news, who announces deliverance, who says to Zion, “Your God reigns!”