1 The Lord said:Israel, I promisethat some day all your tribeswill again be my people,and I will be your God.
2 In the desert I was kindto those who escaped death.I gave them peace,and when the time is right,I'll do the same for you.I, the Lord, have spoken.
3 Some time ago, the Lord appeared to me and told me to say:Israel, I will always love you;that's why I've been so patientand kind.
4 You are precious to me,and so I will rebuildyour nation.Once again you will dance for joyand play your tambourines.
5 You will plant vineyardson the hills of Samariaand enjoy the grapes.
6 Some day those who guardthe hill country of Ephraimwill shout, “Let's go to Zionand worship the Lord our God.”
7 The Lord says:Celebrate and sing for Israel,the greatest of nations.Offer praises and shout,“Come and rescueyour people, Lord!Save what's left of Israel.”