5 A deer gives birth in a field,then abandons her newborn fawnand leaves in search of grass.
6 Wild donkeys go blindfrom starvation.So they stand on barren hilltopsand sniff the air,hoping to smell green grass.
7 Our terrible sins may demandthat we be punished.But if you rescue us, Lord,everyone will seehow great you are.
8 You're our only hope;you alone can save us now.You help us one day,but you're gone the next.
9 Did this disastertake you by surprise?Are you a warriorwith your hands tied?You have chosen us,and your temple is here.Don't abandon us!
10 My people,you love to wander away;you don't even tryto stay close to me.So now I will reject youand punish you for your sins.I, the Lord, have spoken.
11 The Lord said, “Jeremiah, don't ask me to help these people.