First ReadingSirach 6:5-17
From the Book of Sirach
5Sweet words will multiply a man’s friends.A gracious tongue will multiply courtesies.6Let those that are at peace with you be many,but your advisers one of a thousand.7If you want to gain a friend, get him in a time of testing,and don’t be in a hurry to trust him.8For there is a friend just for an occasion.He won’t continue in the day of your affliction.9And there is a friend who turns into an enemy.He will discover strife to your reproach.10And there is a friend who is a companion at the table,but he won’t continue in the day of your affliction.11In your prosperity he will be as yourself,and will be bold over your servants.12If you are brought low, he will be against you,and will hide himself from your face.13Separate yourself from your enemies,and beware of your friends.14A faithful friend is a strong defense.He who has found him has found a treasure.15There is nothing that can be taken in exchange for a faithful friend.His excellency is beyond price.16A faithful friend is a life-saving medicine.Those who fear the Lord will find him.17He who fears the Lord directs his friendship properly;for as he is, so is his neighbor also.