Wisdom 2:12, 17-20
A Reading from the Book of Wisdom:
The wicked say:
Let us beset the just one, because he is obnoxious to us; he sets himself against our doings, reproaches us for transgressions of the law and charges us with violations of our training.
Let us see whether his words be true; let us find out what will happen to him. For if the just one be the son of God, God will defend him and deliver him from the hand of his foes.
With revilement and torture let us put the just one to the test that we may have proof of his gentleness and try his patience.
Let us condemn him to a shameful death; for according to his own words, God will take care of him.
The Word of the Lord.
"The Lord upholds my life."
1. O God, by your name save me,
and by your might defend my cause.
O God, hear my prayer;
hearken to the words of my mouth.
R: The Lord upholds my life.
2. For the haughty have risen up against me,
the ruthless seek my life;
they set not God before their eyes.
R: The Lord upholds my life.
3. Behold, God is my helper;
the Lord sustains my life.
Freely will I offer you sacrifice;
I will praise your name, O Lord, for its goodness.
R: The Lord upholds my life.
James 3:16-4:3
A Reading from the Letter of St. James:
Beloved:
Where jealousy and selfish ambition exist, there is disorder and every foul practice. But the wisdom from above is first of all pure, then peaceable, gentle, compliant, full of mercy and good fruits, without inconstancy or insincerity. And the fruit of righteousness is sown in peace for those who cultivate peace.
Where do the wars and where do the conflicts among you come from? Is it not from your passions that make war within your members?
You covet but do not possess. You kill and envy but you cannot obtain; you fight and wage war.
You do not possess because you do not ask. You ask but do not receive, because you ask wrongly, to spend it on your passions.
The Word of the Lord.
Alleluia, Alleluia, Alleluia.
God has called us through the Gospel
to possess the glory of our Lord Jesus Christ.