[1] Let's return to the LORD. He has torn us to shreds, but he will bandage our wounds and make us well. [2] In two or three days he will heal us and restore our strength that we may live with him. [3] Let's do our best to know the LORD. His coming is as certain as the morning sun; he will refresh us like rain renewing the earth in the springtime. [4] People of Israel and Judah, what can I do with you? Your love for me disappears more quickly than mist or dew at sunrise. [5] That's why I slaughtered you with the words of my prophets. That's why my judgments blazed like the dawning sun. [6] I'd rather for you to be faithful and to know me than to offer sacrifices. [7] At a place named Adam, you betrayed me by breaking our agreement. [8] Everyone in Gilead is evil; your hands are stained with the blood of victims. [9] You priests are like a gang of robbers in ambush. On the road to Shechem you murder and commit other horrible crimes. [10] I have seen a terrible thing in Israel- you are unfaithful and unfit to worship me. [11] People of Judah, your time is coming too. I, the LORD, would like to make my nation prosper again
