7. Oh yes, God says so:“Shout for joy at the top of your lungs for Jacob!Announce the good news to the number-one nation!Raise cheers! Sing praises. Say,‘God has saved his people,saved the core of Israel.’
8. “Watch what comes next:“I’ll bring my people backfrom the north countryAnd gather them up from the ends of the earth,gather those who’ve gone blindAnd those who are lame and limping,gather pregnant women,Even the mothers whose birth pangs have started,bring them all back, a huge crowd!
9. “Watch them come! They’ll come weeping for joyas I take their hands and lead them,Lead them to fresh flowing brooks,lead them along smooth, uncluttered paths.Yes, it’s because I’m Israel’s Fatherand Ephraim’s my firstborn son!