This verse is the obvious conclusion to the poetic structure above. It does not fit into the poetic forms, but comes as the punctuation of the poetic form. The poetry sets up the condition requiring the repentance of those hearing this message, and this verse provides the consequence. The poetry is hopeful. The poetry repeats the imagery of the desire of the Lord to gather his children, a message that is assuredly hopeful.
It is right that this conclusion come after the hope. More emphasis is on the hope of the repentance and the gathering, and just this message to give the alternative. The threat that “the places of your dwellings shall become desolate” would be very real to these people after the destruction they had just witnessed.
This concludes the second communication from the risen Lord. The first message introduced the Lord as the Atoning Messiah. This message concentrates on the offer of redemption. While atonement has been made, it is of no effect if we do not come unto him. This communication is the offer to come.