14
that from the time God created the earth she has suffered as much in producing human beings for God as you did in childbirth.
15
So keep your tears to yourself, and be brave about what has happened to you.
16
If you will accept God's decision as just, you will get your son back at the right time, and you will receive the praise due a mother.
17
Go back to the city and to your husband."
18
"No," she answered, "I will never go back; I am going to stay here and die."
19
"Don't do that," I continued. "Consider the misfortunes and sorrows of Jerusalem, and you won't feel so sorry for yourself.
21
You can see that our place of worship is in ruins, our altar has been torn down, our Temple has been destroyed,
22
our musical instruments lie quiet, our hymns have been silenced, our joy has ended, the light of the sacred lamp has been put out, our Covenant Box has been carried off, our sacred utensils have been desecrated, the name of our God has been profaned, our leaders have been dishonored, our priests have been burned to death, our Levites have been taken captive, our virgins have been raped, our wives have been violated, our devout men have been carried off, our children have been abandoned, our young people have been made slaves, and our strong soldiers have been made helpless.
23
Worst of all, Jerusalem, once marked as God's own city, has lost its glory and has been handed over to our enemies.