12 The Lord said:My people, you are woundedand near death.
13 You are accused of a crimewith no one to defend you,and you are covered with soresthat no medicine can cure.
14-15 Your friends have forgotten you;they don't care any more.Even I have acted like an enemy.And because your sinsare horrible and countless,I will be cruelas I punish you.So don't bother to cry outfor relief from your pain.
16 But if your enemies try to robor destroy you,I will rob and destroy them,and they will be led as captivesto foreign lands.
17 No one wants you as a friendor cares what happens to you.But I will heal your injuries,and you will get well.
18 The Lord said:Israel, I will be kind to youand let you come home.Jerusalem now lies in ruins,but you will rebuild it,complete with a new palace.
19 Other nations will respectand honour you.Your homes will be filledwith children,and you will celebrate,singing praises to me.