1. The Lord says, “At that time I will be God of all Israel’s family groups. And they will be my people.”
2. This is what the Lord says:“Some of the people were not killed by the enemy’s sword.Those people will find help in the desert.I have come to give rest to Israel.”
3. And from far away the Lord appeared to his people. He said,“I love you peoplewith a love that will last forever.I became your friendbecause of my love and kindness.
4. People of Israel, I will build you up again,and you will be rebuilt.You will pick up your tambourines again.You will dance with those who are joyful.
5. You will plant vineyards againon the hills around Samaria.The farmers will plant themand enjoy their fruit.
6. There will be a time when watchmen in the mountains of Ephraim shout this message:‘Come, let’s go up to Jerusalem to worship the Lord our God!’”
7. This is what the Lord says:“Be happy and sing for the people of Jacob.Shout for Israel, the greatest of the nations.Sing your praises and shout this:‘Lord, save your people!Save those who are left alive from the nation of Israel!’
8. Look, I will bring Israel from the country in the north.I will gather them from the faraway places on earth.Some of the people are blind and crippled.Some of the women will be pregnant and ready to give birth.A great many people will come back.
9. Those people will be crying as they come back.But they will pray as I bring them back.I will lead those people by streams of water.I will lead them on an even road where they will not stumble.This is because I am Israel’s father.And Israel is my firstborn son.