8 They sinned and rebelled against me, but I will forgive them and take away their guilt.
9 When that happens, all nations on earth will see the good things I have done for Jerusalem, and how I have given it complete peace. The nations will celebrate and praise and honor me, but they will also tremble with fear because of the powerful things I have done.
10 Jeremiah, you say that this land is a desert without people or animals, and for now, you are right. The towns of Judah and the streets of Jerusalem are deserted, and people and animals are nowhere to be seen. But someday you will hear
11 happy voices and the sounds of parties and wedding celebrations. And when people come to my temple to offer sacrifices to thank me, you will hear them say:“We praise you,Lord All-Powerful!You are good to us,and your love never fails.”The land will once again be productive.
12-13 Now it is empty, without people or animals. But when that time comes, shepherds will take care of their flocks in pastures near every town in the hill country, in the foothills to the west, in the Southern Desert, in the land of the Benjamin tribe, and around Jerusalem and the towns of Judah.I, the Lord, have spoken.
14 The Lord said:I made a wonderful promise to Israel and Judah, and the days are coming when I will keep it.
15 I promise that the time will comewhen I will appoint a kingfrom the family of David,a king who will be honestand rule with justice.