3They said to me, “Those who survived the exile and are back in the province are in great trouble and disgrace. The wall of Jerusalem is broken down, and its gates have been burned with fire.” 4When I heard these things, I sat down and wept. For some days I mourned and fasted and prayed before the God of heaven.
5Then I said: “ LORD, the God of heaven, the great and awesome God, who keeps his covenant of love with those who love him and keep his commandments,