Wisdom 4:7-15

OLD TESTAMENT READING (First Reading)

Wisdom 4:7-15

A Reading from the Book of Wisdom

 The just man, though he die early,

      shall be at rest.

For the age that is honorable comes not

      with the passing of time,

      nor can it be measured in terms of years.

Rather, understanding is the hoary crown for men,

      and an unsullied life, the attainment of old age.

He who pleased God was loved;

      he who lived among sinners was transported-

Snatched away, lest wickedness pervert his mind

      or deceit beguile his soul;

For the witchery of paltry things obscures what is right

      and the whirl of desire transforms the innocent mind.

Having become perfect for a short while,

      he reached the fullness of a long career;

      for his soul was pleasing to the Lord,

      therefore he sped him out of the midst of wickedness.

But the people saw and did not understand,

      nor did they take this into account.

The word of the Lord