2. “The nation of Judah cries.Her cities are dying.They cry out for the land.A cry goes up to God from Jerusalem.
3. The important men send their servants to get water.The servants go to the wells,but they find no water.So they return with empty jars.They are ashamed and embarrassed.They cover their heads in shame.
4. The ground is dry and cracked openbecause no rain falls on the land.The farmers are upset and sad.So they cover their heads in shame.
5. Even the mother deer in the fieldleaves her fawn.She does this because there is no grass.
6. Wild donkeys stand on the bare hills.They sniff the wind like wild dogs.But their eyes are dull becausethere is no food.”
7. We know that we suffer because of our sins.Lord, do something to help us for the good of your name.We have left you many times.We have sinned against you.
8. God, you are the Hope of Israel.You have saved Israel in times of trouble.But now you are like a stranger in the land.You are like a traveler who only stays one night.
9. You seem like a man who has been attacked by surprise.You seem like a warrior who is not able to save anyone.But you are among us, Lord.And we are called by your name.So don’t leave us without help!
10. This is what the Lord says about the people of Judah:“They really love to wander from me.They don’t stop themselves from leaving me.So now I, the Lord, will not accept them.I will now remember the evil they do.I will punish them for their sins.”