9. They rush against the city;they run over the walls;they climb up the housesand go in through the windows like thieves.
10. The earth shakes as they advance;the sky trembles.The sun and the moon grow dark,and the stars no longer shine.
11. The Lord thunders commands to his army.The troops that obey himare many and mighty.How terrible is the day of the Lord!Who will survive it?
12. “But even now,” says the Lord,“repent sincerely and return to mewith fasting and weeping and mourning.
13. Let your broken heart show your sorrow;tearing your clothes is not enough.”Come back to the Lord your God.He is kind and full of mercy;he is patient and keeps his promise;he is always ready to forgive and not punish.
14. Perhaps the Lord your God will change his mindand bless you with abundant crops.Then you can offer him corn and wine.
15. Blow the trumpet on Mount Zion;give orders for a fast and call an assembly!
16. Gather the people together;prepare them for a sacred meeting;bring the old people;gather the childrenand the babies too.Even newly married couplesmust leave their room and come.
17. The priests, serving the Lordbetween the altar and the entrance of the Temple,must weep and pray:“Have pity on your people, Lord.Do not let other nations despise us and mock usby saying, ‘Where is your God?’ ”
18. Then the Lord showed concern for his land;he had mercy on his people.
19. He answered them:“Now I am going to give youcorn and wine and olive oil,and you will be satisfied.Other nations will no longer despise you.