11. I will level the mountainsand make roads.
12. Then my people will returnfrom distant landsin the north and the westand from the city of Syene.
13. Tell the heavens and the earthto celebrate and sing;command every mountainto join in the song.The Lord's people have suffered,but he has shown mercyand given them comfort.
14. The people of Zion said,“The Lord has turned awayand forgotten us.”
15. The Lord answered,“Could a mother forget a childwho nurses at her breast?Could she fail to love an infantwho came from her own body?Even if a mother could forget,I will never forget you.
16. A picture of your cityis drawn on my hand.You are always in my thoughts!
17. “Your city will be built fasterthan it was destroyed—those who attacked itwill retreat and leave.