1-4. “Dispatch a gift of lambs,” says Moab,“to the leaders in Jerusalem—Lambs from Sela sent across the desertto buy the goodwill of Jerusalem.The towns and people of Moabare at a loss,New-hatched birds knocked from the nest,fluttering helplesslyAt the banks of the Arnon River,unable to cross:‘Tell us what to do,help us out!Protect us,hide us!Give the refugees from Moabsanctuary with you.Be a safe place for those on the runfrom the killing fields.’”
13-14. This is God’s earlier Message on Moab. God’s updated Message is, “In three years, no longer than the term of an enlisted soldier, Moab’s impressive presence will be gone, that splendid hot-air balloon will be punctured, and instead of a vigorous population, just a few shuffling bums cadging handouts.”