9 They will weep and prayas I bring them home.I will lead themto streams of water.They will walk on a level roadand not stumble.I am a father to Israel,my favourite children.
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.