32. But remember, says the Sovereign lord, I am not doing this because you deserve it. O my people of Israel, you should be utterly ashamed of all you have done!
33. “This is what the Sovereign lord says: When I cleanse you from your sins, I will repopulate your cities, and the ruins will be rebuilt.
34. The fields that used to lie empty and desolate in plain view of everyone will again be farmed.
35. And when I bring you back, people will say, ‘This former wasteland is now like the Garden of Eden! The abandoned and ruined cities now have strong walls and are filled with people!’
36. Then the surrounding nations that survive will know that I, the lord, have rebuilt the ruins and replanted the wasteland. For I, the lord, have spoken, and I will do what I say.
37. “This is what the Sovereign lord says: I am ready to hear Israel’s prayers and to increase their numbers like a flock.
38. They will be as numerous as the sacred flocks that fill Jerusalem’s streets at the time of her festivals. The ruined cities will be crowded with people once more, and everyone will know that I am the lord.”