A Proclamation for Cambodia

The Spirit of the Sovereign Lord is on me,

because the Lord has anointed me

to proclaim good news to the poor.

He has sent me to bind up the broken hearted,

to proclaim freedom for the captives

and release from darkness for the prisoners,

to proclaim the year of the Lord's favour

and the day of vengeance of our God,

to comfort all who mourn,

and provide for those who grieve in Zion—

to bestow on them a crown of beauty

instead of ashes,

the oil of joy

instead of mourning,

and a garment of praise

instead of a spirit of despair.

You will be called oaks of righteousness,

a planting of the Lord

for the display of his splendour.

You will rebuild the ancient ruins

and restore the places long devastated;

You will renew the ruined cities

that have been devastated for generations.

Strangers will shepherd your flocks;

foreigners will work your fields and vineyards.

And you will be called priests of the Lord,

you will be named ministers of our God.

You will feed on the wealth of nations,

and in their riches you will boast.

Instead of your shame

you will receive a double portion,

and instead of disgrace

you will rejoice in your inheritance.

And so you will inherit a double portion in your land,

and everlasting joy will be yours.

For I, the Lord, love justice;
I hate robbery and wrongdoing
In My faithfulness I will reward My people
and make an everlasting covenant with them.

Your descendants will be known among the nations

and your offspring among the peoples.

All who see them will acknowledge

that you are a people the Lord has blessed.

~ Isaiah 61: 1 - 9