1 Maccabees 2:51-64
New American Bible (Revised Edition)
51 “Remember the deeds that our ancestors did in their times,
and you shall win great honor and an everlasting name.
52 Was not Abraham found faithful in trial,
and it was credited to him as righteousness?(A)
53 Joseph, when in distress, kept the commandment,
and he became master of Egypt.(B)
54 Phinehas our ancestor, for his burning zeal,
received the covenant of an everlasting priesthood.(C)
55 Joshua, for executing his commission,
became a judge in Israel.(D)
56 Caleb, for bearing witness before the assembly,
received an inheritance in the land.(E)
57 David, for his loyalty,
received as a heritage a throne of eternal kingship.(F)
58 Elijah, for his burning zeal for the law,
was taken up to heaven.(G)
59 Hananiah, Azariah and Mishael, for their faith,
were saved from the fire.(H)
60 Daniel, for his innocence,
was delivered from the mouths of lions.(I)
61 And so, consider this from generation to generation,
that none who hope in Heaven shall fail in strength.
62 Do not fear the words of sinners,
for their glory ends in corruption and worms.(J)
63 Today exalted, tomorrow not to be found,
they have returned to dust,
their schemes have perished.
64 Children! be courageous and strong in keeping the law,
for by it you shall be honored.
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