This message from the LORD came to Pethuel's son Joel.

"Hear this, you elders! Listen, all of you residents of the land! Has there ever been anything like this during your lifetime, or even when your ancestors were alive?

Tear your hearts, not your garments; and turn back to the LORD your God. For he is gracious and compassionate, slow to become angry, overflowing in gracious love, and grieves about this evil.

"Declare this among the nations: "Prepare for war! Wake up your elite forces! Let all the soldiers draw near! Call them up!