18. This is what the Lord said:“I will make the tents of Jacob’s people as they used to be.And I will have pity on Israel’s houses.The city will be rebuilt on its hill of ruins.And the king’s palace will stand in its proper place.
19. People in those places will sing songs of praise.There will also be the sound of laughter.I will give them many children.They will not be small.I will bring honor to them.No one will look down on them.
20. Their descendants will be like they were in the old days.I will make their people strong before me.And I will punish the nations who have hurt them.
21. One of their own people will lead them.Their ruler will come from among them.He will come near to me when I invite him.Who would dare to come uninvited?” says the Lord.
22. “So you will be my people,and I will be your God.”
23. The Lord was very angry.He punished the people.And the punishment came like a storm.It came like a hurricane against the evil people.
24. The Lord will stay angryuntil he finishes punishing the people.He will stay angryuntil he finishes the punishment he planned.When that day comes,you will understand this.