Bible Society of South Africa

Advent: Third Sunday of Advent

First reading

A Song of Joy

14Sing and shout for joy, people of Israel!

Rejoice with all your heart, Jerusalem!

15The LORD has ended your punishment;

he has removed all your enemies.

The LORD, the king of Israel, is with you;

there is no reason now to be afraid.

16The time is coming when they will say to Jerusalem,

“Do not be afraid, city of Zion!

Do not let your hands hang limp!

17The LORD your God is with you;

his power gives you victory.

The LORD will take delight in you,

and in his love he will give you new life.

He will sing and be joyful over you,

18as joyful as people at a festival.”

The LORD says,

“I have ended the threat of doom

and taken away your disgrace.

19The time is coming!

I will punish your oppressors;

I will rescue all the lame

and bring the exiles home.

I will turn their shame to honour,

and all the world will praise them.

20The time is coming!

I will bring your scattered people home;

I will make you famous throughout the world

and make you prosperous once again.”

The LORD has spoken.

Zephaniah 3:14-20GNBOpen in Bible reader
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