10 The earth quakes in their presence,and the sky shakes.The sun and the moon turn dark,and the stars no longer shine.
11 The Lord shouts out orders to his army.His forces are very large.The troops that carry out his commands are mighty.The day of the Lord is extremely terrifying.Who can endure it?
12 “But even now,” declares the Lord,“return to me with all your heart—with fasting, crying, and mourning.”
13 Tear your hearts, not your clothes.Return to the Lord your God.He is merciful and compassionate,patient, and always ready to forgiveand to change his plans about disaster.
14 Who knows?He may reconsider and change his planand leave a blessing for you.Then you could give grain offerings and wine offeringsto the Lord your God.
15 Blow the ram’s horn in Zion.Schedule a time to fast.Call for an assembly.
16 Gather the people.Prepare them for a holy meeting.Assemble the leaders.Gather the children, even the nursing infants.Grooms leave their rooms.Brides leave their chambers.