Unfaithful Israel (JER 3:1-5)

[3:1] The Lord says, “If a man divorces his wife, and she leaves him and becomes another man's wife, he cannot take her back again. This would completely defile the land. But, Israel, you have had many lovers, and now you want to return to me!

[3:2] Look up at the hilltops. Is there any place where you have not acted like a prostitute? You waited for lovers along the roadside, as an Arab waits for victims in the desert. You have defiled the land with your prostitution.

[3:3] That is why the rains were held back, and the spring showers did not come. You even look like a prostitute; you have no shame.

[3:4] “And now you say to me, ‘You are my father, and you have loved me ever since I was a child.

[3:5] You won't always be angry; you won't be mad at me forever.’ Israel, that is what you said, but you did all the evil you could.”