7 “A woman does not give birth before she feels the pain;she does not give birth to a son before the pain starts.
8 No one has ever heard of that happening;no one has ever seen that happen.In the same way no one ever saw a country begin in one day;no one has ever heard of a new nation beginning in one moment.But Jerusalem will give birth to her childrenjust as soon as she feels the birth pains.
9 In the same way I will not cause painwithout allowing something new to be born,” says the Lord.“If I cause you the pain,I will not stop you from giving birth to your new nation,” says your God.
10 “Jerusalem, rejoice.All you people who love Jerusalem, be happy.Those of you who felt sad for Jerusalemshould now feel happy with her.
11 You will take comfort from her and be satisfied,as a child is nursed by its mother.You will receive her good thingsand enjoy her wealth.”
12 This is what the Lord says:“I will give her peace that will flow to her like a river.The wealth of the nations will come to her like a river overflowing its banks.Like babies you will be nursed and held in my armsand bounced on my knees.
13 I will comfort youas a mother comforts her child.You will be comforted in Jerusalem.”