Sirach 17:17–28

17 He appointed a ruler for every nation,

but Israel is the Lord’s own portion.

19 All their works are as the sun before him,

and his eyes are continually upon their ways.

20 Their iniquities are not hidden from him,

and all their sins are before the Lord.

22 A man’s almsgiving is like a signet with the Lord

and he will keep a person’s kindness like the apple of his eye.

23 Afterward he will arise and requite them,

and he will bring their recompense on their heads.

24 Yet to those who repent he grants a return,

and he encourages those whose endurance is failing.

25 Turn to the Lord and forsake your sins;

pray in his presence and lessen your offenses.

26 Return to the Most High and turn away from iniquity,

and hate abominations intensely.

27 Who will sing praises to the Most High in Hades,

as do those who are alive and give thanks?

28 From the dead, as from one who does not exist, thanksgiving has ceased;

he who is alive and well sings the Lord’s praises.