9. whose land was dragged down all the way to hell. I will do the same to those who haven’t obeyed me, says the almighty Lord.
10. The Lord said this to Ezra: Announce to my people that I have prepared a feast for them, and I will give them the kingdom of Jerusalem, which I was about to give to Israel.
11. I will take Israel’s glory for them and give to them the eternal dwelling places I had prepared for Israel.
12. The tree of life will provide them with fragrant ointment, and they won’t labor or grow tired.
13. Ask and you will receive; ask for yourselves just a few days so that your days may be shortened. Already my kingdom is prepared to come, so be watchful in spirit.
14. I call heaven and earth as witnesses: I have dismissed evil and created good, because I live, says the Lord.
15. Good mother, embrace your children. Give them joy, like a dove that brings up its children. Make their feet steady, for I have chosen you, says the Lord.
16. I will raise the dead from their places and from their tombs, for I have recognized that my name is in them.