7 The Lord says,“Sing with joy for Israel,the greatest of the nations.Sing your song of praise,‘The Lord has saved his people;he has rescued all who are left.’
8 I will bring them from the northand gather them from the ends of the earth.The blind and the lame will come with them,pregnant women and those about to give birth.They will come back a great nation.
9 My people will return weeping,praying as I lead them back.I will guide them to streams of water,on a smooth road where they will not stumble.I am like a father to Israel,and Ephraim is my oldest son.”
10 The Lord says,“Nations, listen to meand proclaim my words on the far-off shores.I scattered my people, but I will gather themand guard them as a shepherd guards his flock.
11 I have set Israel's people freeand have saved them from a mighty nation.
12 They will come and sing for joy on Mount Zionand be delighted with my gifts—gifts of grain and wine and olive oil,gifts of sheep and cattle.They will be like a well-watered garden;they will have everything they need.
13 Then the young women will dance and be happy,and men, young and old, will rejoice.I will comfort them and turn their mourning into joy,their sorrow into gladness.