Isaiah 1:21-26

The Voice

²¹ O that city, once so loyal, has become a prostitute.
    Where there had been perfect justice, equity and compassion,
Now there are murderers.
²² All that once made your community shine like silver is now tarnished,
    your best drink watered down like a cheapskate’s wine.
²³ Your leaders are liars, running around with thieves,
    wheedling for bribes—greedy for “contributions.”
They don’t defend the needy and pay no attention to the weak.

²⁴ Consequently, the Eternal, Commander of heavenly armies, the Mighty One of Israel,
    will not keep quiet.

Eternal One: Oh yes, I will get relief from my enemies
        and settle the score with My foes!
²⁵     I will take action against you, My sinful children,
        burning off whatever is worthless, purging whatever is impure.
²⁶     I will bring back legislators who have integrity,
        people like your founding fathers—principled decision-makers.
    Then your city will be called honorable and just,
        a model of ethics, trustworthy, and strong.