32
Until I come, hold your children close and tell them about my grace and mercy, which are like a spring that never runs dry."
33
I, Ezra, was on Mount Sinai when the Lord ordered me to go to the people of Israel. But when I went to them, they rejected me and refused to listen to what the Lord commanded.
34
That is why I am speaking to you Gentiles. You are ready to listen and understand: "Wait for your shepherd who is coming very soon, at the end of the age, to give you eternal rest.
35
Be ready to receive the blessings of the kingdom, for eternal light will shine on you forever.
36
Flee from the darkness of this present age and accept the joyful splendor prepared for you. I testify publicly for my savior.
37
The Lord has appointed him, so accept him and be happy. Give thanks to God, who has called you into his heavenly kingdom.
38
Stand up and see the number of those who have received the Lord's mark and who share in his banquet.
39
They have left the darkness of this age and have received shining white robes from the Lord.
40
So now, Jerusalem, welcome these people who have kept the Law of the Lord, and this will complete the list of those whom God has assigned to you.
41
The children you longed for have returned; their number is now complete. So pray that the Lord's kingdom may come and that your people, whom God chose before he created the world, may become holy."
42
I, Ezra, saw an enormous crowd on Mount Zion, too many people to count. They were all singing and praising the Lord.
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