2 Esdras 2:33-41

New Revised Standard Version Updated Edition

Ezra on Mount Horeb

³³ I, Ezra, received a command from the Lord on Mount Horeb to go to Israel. When I came to them, they rejected me and refused the Lord’s commandment.^{(A) 34} Therefore I say to you, O nations that hear and understand, “Wait for your shepherd; he will give you everlasting rest, because he who will come at the end of the age is close at hand.^{(B) 35} Be ready for the rewards of the kingdom, because perpetual light will shine on you forevermore.^{(C) 36} Flee from the shadow of this age; receive the joy of your glory; I publicly call on my savior to witness.^{[a](D) 37} Receive what the Lord has entrusted to you and be joyful, giving thanks to him who has called you to the celestial kingdoms.^{(E) 38} Rise, stand erect, and see the number of those who have been sealed at the feast of the Lord.^{(F) 39} Those who have departed from the shadow of this age have received glorious garments from the Lord.^{(G) 40} Take again your full number, O Zion, and close the list of your people who are clothed in white, who have fulfilled the law of the Lord.^{(H) 41} The number of your children, whom you desired, is now complete; implore the Lord’s authority that your people, who have been called from the beginning, may be made holy.”^(I)