13. They had no respect for his commandments and would not live by them; they refused to let him guide them in the way of righteousness.
14. “All you neighbouring cities, come and consider how the Eternal God has sent my children into exile.
15. He brought against them a nation from far away, a shameless nation that speaks a foreign language and has no respect for the elderly and no pity for children.
16. These people carried off my beloved sons and took away my daughters, and I was left a widow, completely alone.
17. “My children in exile, I can do nothing to help you.
18. Only the one who brought this punishment upon you can rescue you from your enemies.
19. Go your own way, my children; live your own life! I am all alone.
20. I have taken off the robes I wore during days of peace, and I have dressed myself like a person in mourning. I will cry out to the Eternal God for help as long as I live.
21. “Take courage, my children, and cry out to God for help. He will rescue you from oppression, from the power of your enemies.
22. I am confident that the Eternal God will soon set you free. The Holy One, your eternal saviour, will make me happy when he shows you mercy.
23. I cried and wailed when you were taken away, but God will bring you back and will make me happy for ever.
24. Just as the neighbouring cities watched as you were taken captive, so they will soon see the Eternal God coming in glorious splendour to rescue you.