2. Has not my hand made all these things,and so they came into being?’declares the Lord.‘These are the ones I look on with favour:those who are humble and contrite in spirit,and who tremble at my word.
3. But whoever sacrifices a bullis like one who kills a person,and whoever offers a lambis like one who breaks a dog’s neck;whoever makes a grain offeringis like one who presents pig’s blood,and whoever burns memorial incenseis like one who worships an idol.They have chosen their own ways,and they delight in their abominations;
4. so I also will choose harsh treatment for themand will bring on them what they dread.For when I called, no one answered,when I spoke, no one listened.They did evil in my sightand chose what displeases me.’
5. Hear the word of the Lord,you who tremble at his word;‘Your own people who hate you,and exclude you because of my name, have said,“Let the Lord be glorified,that we may see your joy!”Yet they will be put to shame.
6. Hear that uproar from the city,hear that noise from the temple!It is the sound of the Lordrepaying his enemies all they deserve.
7. ‘Before she goes into labour,she gives birth;before the pains come upon her,she delivers a son.
8. Who has ever heard of such things?Who has ever seen things like this?Can a country be born in a dayor a nation be brought forth in a moment?Yet no sooner is Zion in labourthan she gives birth to her children.
9. Do I bring to the moment of birthand not give delivery?’ says the Lord.‘Do I close up the wombwhen I bring to delivery?’ says your God.
10. ‘Rejoice with Jerusalem and be glad for her,all you who love her;rejoice greatly with her,all you who mourn over her.
11. For you will feed and be satisfiedat her comforting breasts;you will drink deeplyand delight in her overflowing abundance.’