Friday 6 November 2020

2For by this, the elders obtained approval.

· · · some verses are not read1Therefore let’s also,seeing we are surrounded by so great a cloud of witnesses,lay aside every weight and the sinwhich so easily entangles us,and let’s run with perseverance the racethat is set before us,2looking to Jesus, the author and perfecter of faith,who for the joy that was set before him endured the cross,despising its shame,and has sat down at the right hand of the throne of God.

3For consider himwho has endured such contradiction of sinners against himself,that you don’t grow weary,fainting in your souls.4You have not yet resisted to blood, striving against sin.· · · verses 5–14 are not read15looking carefully lest there be any manwho falls short of the grace of God,lest any root of bitterness springing up trouble youand many be defiled by it,

· · · some verses are not read1Let brotherly love continue.

1When the Lord brought back those who returned to Zion,we were like those who dream.2Then our mouth was filled with laughter,and our tongue with singing.

2Then they said among the nations,“The Lord has done great things for them.”3The Lord has done great things for us,and we are glad.

4Restore our fortunes again, Lord,like the streams in the Negev.5Those who sow in tears will reap in joy.

6He who goes out weeping, carrying seed for sowing,will certainly come again with joy, carrying his sheaves.

20He lifted up his eyes to his disciples, and said:

“Blessed are you who are poor,for God’s Kingdom is yours.21Blessed are you who hunger now,for you will be filled.Blessed are you who weep now,for you will laugh.22Blessed are you when men hate you, and when they exclude and mock you, and throw out your name as evil, for the Son of Man’s sake.23Rejoice in that day and leap for joy, for behold, your reward is great in heaven, for their fathers did the same thing to the prophets.24“But woe to you who are rich!For you have received your consolation.25Woe to you, you who are full now,for you will be hungry.Woe to you who laugh now,for you will mourn and weep.26Woe, when men speak well of you,for their fathers did the same thing to the false prophets.