The Lord recognizes that there has been barrenness. For the Nephites, this is a recognition that they have been separated from Israel for a long time. Nevertheless, he reminds them that to God this is “a small moment.” Even though the separation from Israel has taken time, at the end “with great mercies will I gather thee.” The promised reunification is going to come, and it will come with “great mercies,” also indicated as the metaphorical children.