27. The Lord proclaims:The whole earth will become a desolation,but I will not destroy it completely.
28. Therefore, the earth will grieveand the heavens grow darkbecause I have declared my planand will neither change my mindnor cancel the plan.
29. As the horsemen and archers approach,the people take flight.They hide in the bushesand escape to the cliffs.Every city is deserted;no one remains.
30. And you, devastated one,why dress up in scarlet,deck yourself in gold jewelry,and color your eyes with paint?In vain you get all decked out;your lovers have rejected youand now seek your life.
31. I hear the cry of a woman in labor,the distress of one delivering her first child.It is the cry of Daughter Zion,gasping for breath,her arms stretched out,and moaning,"I’m about to fall into the hands of murderers!"