18Forget what happened in the past, and do not dwell on events from long ago. 19I am going to do something new. It is already happening. Don't you recognize it? I will clear a way in the desert. I will make rivers on dry land. 20Wild animals, jackals, and ostriches will honor me. I will provide water in the desert. I will make rivers on the dry land for my chosen people to drink. 21I have formed these people for myself. They will praise me. 22Jacob, you have not prayed to me. Israel, you have grown tired of me. 23You did not bring me sheep for your burnt offerings or honor me with your sacrifices. I did not burden you by requiring grain offerings or trouble you by requiring incense offerings. 24You did not buy me any sugar cane with [your] money or satisfy me with the best part of your sacrifices. Rather, you burdened me with your sins and troubled me with your wrongdoings. 25I alone am the one who is going to wipe away your rebellious actions for my own sake. I will not remember your sins [anymore]. 26Remind me [of what happened]. Let us argue our case together. State your case so that you can prove you are right. 27Your first ancestor sinned, and your priests rebelled against me. 28That is why I will corrupt the leaders of the holy place. I will claim Jacob for destruction. I will set up Israel for ridicule.
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