“ Before I formed you in your mother’s body I chose you. Before you were born I set you apart to serve me. I appointed you to be a prophet to the nations.”
People who live on the islands, listen to me. Pay attention, you nations far away. Before I was born the Lord chose me to serve him. Before I was born the Lord spoke my name.
The Lord says,“ Family of Jacob, listen to me. Pay attention, you people of Israel who are left alive. I have taken good care of you since your life began. I have carried you since you were born as a nation.I will continue to carry you even when you are old. I will take good care of you even when your hair is gray. I have made you, and I will carry you. I will take care of you, and I will save you. I am the Lord.
Jesus said,“ Do not hold on to me. I have not yet ascended to the Father. Instead, go to those who believe in me. Tell them,‘ I am ascending to my Father and your Father, to my God and your God.’ ”