18. Then, in countries to the north,you people of Judah and Israelwill be reunited,and you will return to the landI gave your ancestors.
19. I have always wantedto treat you as my childrenand give you the best land,the most beautiful on earth.I wanted you to call me “Father”and not turn from me.
20. But instead, you are like a wifewho broke her wedding vows.You have been unfaithful to me.I, the Lord, have spoken.
21. Listen to the noiseon the hilltops!It's the people of Israel,weeping and begging meto answer their prayers.They forgot about meand chose the wrong path.
22. I will tell them, “Come back,and I will cure youof your unfaithfulness.”They will answer,“We will come back, because youare the Lord our God.
23. On hilltops, we worshipped idolsand made loud noises,but it was all for nothing—only you can save us.
24. Since the days of our ancestorswhen our nation was young,that shameful god Baal has takenour crops and livestock,our sons and daughters.
25. We have rebelled against youjust like our ancestors,and we are ashamed of our sins.”