1. The Lord continues, "When Israel was a young nation, I loved them. I chose to bring my son out of Egypt.
2. But the more I called out to Israel, the further they went away from me. They brought sacrifices to the statues of the gods that were named after Baal. And they burned incense to them.
3. I taught Israel to walk. I took them up in my arms. But they did not realize I was the one who took care of them.
4. I led them with kindness and love. I did not lead them with ropes. I lifted the heavy loads from their shoulders. I bent down and fed them.