First ReadingSirach 47:2-11
From the Book of Sirach
2As is the fat when it is separated from the peace offering,so was David separated from the children of Israel.3He played with lions as with kids,and with bears as with lambs of the flock.4In his youth didn’t he kill a giant,and take away reproach from the peoplewhen he lifted up his hand with a sling stone,and beat down the boasting Goliath?5For he called upon the Most High Lord,and he gave him strength in his right handto kill a man mighty in war,to exalt the horn of his people.6So they glorified him for his tens of thousands,and praised him for the blessings of the Lord,in that a glorious diadem was given to him.7For he destroyed the enemies on every side,and defeated the Philistines his adversaries.He broke their horn in pieces to this day.8In every work of his he gave thanks to the Holy One Most High with words of glory.He sang praise with his whole heart,and loved him who made him.9He set singers before the altar,to make sweet melody by their music.10He gave beauty to the feasts,and set in order the seasons to completionwhile they praised his holy name,and the sanctuary resounded from early morning.11The Lord took away his sins,and exalted his horn forever.He gave him a covenant of kings,and a glorious throne in Israel.