Shake thyself from the dust; arise, and sit down,
O Jerusalem: loose thyself from the bands of thy neck,
O captive daughter of Zion. —Isaiah 52:2
Isaiah cried to all who
have yielded to pain,
hopelessness, and sin,
when he urged,
Awake, O captive daughter of Zion,
shake thyself from the dust—
the Christ is here; salvation is at hand,
so rejoice!
Rise up; expect healing.
Do all things through
Christ which strengthens you.
Glorify God!
O royal daughter of Zion, remember your heritage.
Sit down on your throne.
Put on your crown. Wield your scepter.
Proclaim your dominion.
Now, loosen the bands from your neck.
Stretch forth your hands.
Cast off all mortal restraints—
for Truth makes you free!
—Janet Stacey McConnell
