[2:12] “But even now,” says the Lord, “repent sincerely and return to me with fasting and weeping and mourning.
[2:13] Let your broken heart show your sorrow; tearing your clothes is not enough.” Come back to the Lord your God. He is kind and full of mercy; he is patient and keeps his promise; he is always ready to forgive and not punish.
[2:14] Perhaps the Lord your God will change his mind and bless you with abundant crops. Then you can offer him grain and wine.
[2:15] Blow the trumpet on Mount Zion; give orders for a fast and call an assembly!
[2:16] Gather the people together; prepare them for a sacred meeting; bring the old people; gather the children and the babies too. Even newly married couples must leave their homes and come.
[2:17] The priests, serving the Lord between the altar and the entrance of the Temple, must weep and pray: “Have pity on your people, Lord. Do not let other nations despise us and mock us by saying, ‘Where is your God?’”