The Scary Balloon

¹ But now, says the LORD the one who created you, Jacob, the one who formed you, Israel: Don’t fear, for I have redeemed you; I have called you by name; you are mine. ² When you pass through the waters, I will be with you; when through the rivers, they won’t sweep over you. When you walk through the fire, you won’t be scorched and flame won’t burn you. ³ I am the LORD your God, the holy one of Israel, your savior. I have given Egypt as your ransom, Cush and Seba in your place. ⁴ Because you are precious in my eyes, you are honored, and I love you. I give people in your place, and nations in exchange for your life. ⁵ Don’t fear, I am with you. From the east I’ll bring your children; from the west I’ll gather you. ⁶ I’ll say to the north, “Give them back!” and to the south, “Don’t detain them.” Bring my sons from far away, and my daughters from the end of the earth, ⁷ everyone who is called by my name and whom I created for my glory, whom I have formed and made.