10 Listen to me, you nationsnearby or across the sea.I scattered the people of Israel,but I will gather them again.I will protect them like a shepherdguarding a flock;
11 I will rescue them from enemieswho could overpower them.
12 My people will cometo Mount Zionand celebrate;their faces will glowbecause of my blessings.I'll give them grain, grapes,and olive oil,as well as sheep and cattle.Israel will be prosperousand grow like a gardenwith plenty of water.
13 Young women and young men,together with the elderly,will celebrate and dance,because I will comfort themand turn their sorrowinto happiness.
14 I will bless my peoplewith more foodthan they need,and the priests will enjoythe choice cuts of meat.I, the Lord, have spoken.
15 In Ramah a voice is heard,crying and weeping loudly.Rachel mourns for her childrenand refuses to be comforted,because they are dead.
16-17 But I, the Lord, tell youto dry your tears.Some day your childrenwill come homefrom the enemy's land.Then all you have done for themwill be greatly rewarded.So don't lose hope.I, the Lord, have spoken.