10. And worst of all, the people of Judah pretended to come back to me.
11. Even the people of Israel were honest enough not to pretend.
12. Jeremiah, shout towards the north:Israel, I am your Lord—come back to me!You were unfaithfuland made me furious,but I am merciful,and so I will forgive you.
13. Just admit that you rebelledand worshipped foreign godsunder large trees everywhere.
14. You are unfaithful children,but you belong to me.Come home!I'll take one or two of youfrom each town and clanand bring you to Zion.
15. Then I'll appoint wise rulerswho will obey me,and they will care for youlike shepherds.
16. You will increase in numbers,and there will be no needto remember the sacred chestor to make a new one.
17. The whole city of Jerusalemwill be my throne.All nations will come hereto worship me,and they will no longer followtheir stubborn, evil hearts.
18. Then, in countries to the north,you people of Judah and Israelwill be reunited,and you will return to the landI gave your ancestors.