1. These are the words that the Lord spoke to Jeremiah about the time when there was no rain:
2. “The nation of Judah cries as if someone has died,and her cities are very sad.They are distressed over the land.A cry goes up to God from Jerusalem.
3. The important men send their servants to get water.They go to the wells,but they find no water.So they return with empty jars.They are ashamed and embarrassedand cover their heads in shame.
4. The ground is dry and cracked open,because 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 newborn fawn to die,because there is no grass.
6. Wild donkeys stand on the bare hillsand sniff the wind like wild dogs.But their eyes go blind,because there 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, the Hope of Israel,you have saved Israel in times of trouble.Why are you like a stranger in the land,or like a traveler who only stays one night?
9. Why are you like someone who has been attacked by surprise,like a warrior who is not able to save anyone?But you are among us, Lord,and we are called by your nameso don’t leave us without help!