2. In the desert I was kindto those who escaped death.I gave them peace,and when the time is right,I'll do the same for you.I, the Lord, have spoken.
3. Some time ago, the Lord appeared to me and told me to say:Israel, I will always love you;that's why I've been so patientand kind.
4. You are precious to me,and so I will rebuildyour nation.Once again you will dance for joyand play your tambourines.
5. You will plant vineyardson the hills of Samariaand enjoy the grapes.
6. Some day those who guardthe hill country of Ephraimwill shout, “Let's go to Zionand worship the Lord our God.”
7. The Lord says:Celebrate and sing for Israel,the greatest of nations.Offer praises and shout,“Come and rescueyour people, Lord!Save what's left of Israel.”
8. I, the Lord, will bringmy people back from Babyloniaand everywhere else on earth.The blind and the lamewill be there.Expectant mothersand women about to give birthwill come and be partof that great crowd.
9. They will weep and prayas I bring them home.I will lead themto streams of water.They will walk on a level roadand not stumble.I am a father to Israel,my favourite children.
16-17. But I, the Lord, tell youto dry your tears.Some day your childrenwill come homefrom the enemy's land.Then all you have done for themwill be greatly rewarded.So don't lose hope.I, the Lord, have spoken.
18. The people of Israel moanand say to me,“We were like wild bulls,but you, Lord, broke us,and we learnt to obey.You are our God—please let us come home.
19. When we were young,we strayed and sinned,but then we realizedwhat we had done.We are ashamed and disgracedand want to return to you.”
20. People of Israel,you are my own dear children.Don't I love you best of all?Though I often make threats,I want you to be near me,so I will have mercy on you.I, the Lord, have spoken.