But when mercy is shown to scoundrels, they still aren’t able to learn righteousness. Even in a land of integrity, they still do wrong, for they ignore the great majesty of the Lord Yahweh.
“I brought you to this land of abundance to enjoy its lush fruit and goodness, but you entered the land and defiled my land. You made hideous the very land I call my own.
Many times you would have come to rescue them, but they continued in their rebellious ways, choosing to ignore your warnings. Then they sank lower and lower, destroyed by their depravity.
Yahweh, the God of Israel, Commander of Angel Armies, says, “This blessing will once again be heard throughout Judah and its towns when I bring their captives home: “ ‘May Yahweh bless the Holy Place where he lives, O holy mountain of Jerusalem!’
When that day comes, a great trumpet will sound, and those lost in the land of Assyria and Egypt—all the exiles—will come and bow down before the Lord Yahweh in Jerusalem and worship him on the holy mountain!
Their lavish parties are complete with the music of harps and flutes—and the wine flows! Yet they have no respect for what Yahweh has done, nor do they contemplate the work of his hands!
I just want to obey all you ask of me. So teach me, Lord, for you are my God. Your gracious Spirit is all I need, so lead me on good paths that are pleasing to you, my one and only God!
for the fool is recognized by his foolish words. Their minds plot treachery, they excel in ungodliness, and they say misleading things about Yahweh. They refuse to feed the hungry or give drink to the thirsty.
Look how the once faithful city has become as unfaithful as a prostitute! She who was once the “Center of Justice,” where righteousness made its home, is now the dwelling place of murderers!