18. The Lord said:Israel, I will be kind to youand let you come home.Jerusalem now lies in ruins,but you will rebuild it,complete with a new palace.
19. Other nations will respectand honour you.Your homes will be filledwith children,and you will celebrate,singing praises to me.
20. It will be just like old times.Your nation will worship me,and I will punish anyonewho abuses you.
21. One of your own peoplewill become your ruler.And when I invite himto come near meat the place of worship,he will do so.No one would dare to come nearwithout being invited.
22. You will be my people,and I will be your God.I, the Lord, have spoken.
23. I am furious!And like a violent stormI will strike thosewho do wrong.
24. I won't calm downuntil I have finishedwhat I have decided to do.Some day, you will understandwhat I mean.