Saint Lawrence of Rome, Deacon and Martyr

6But I say this: Whoever sows sparingly will also reap sparingly. And whoever sows with blessings shall also reap from blessings: 7each one giving, just as he has determined in his heart, neither out of sadness, nor out of obligation. For God loves a cheerful giver. 8And God is able to make every grace abound in you, so that, always having what you need in all things, you may abound unto every good work, 9just as it was written: “He has distributed widely, he has given to the poor; his justice remains from age to age.” 10And he who ministers seed to the sower will offer you bread to eat, and will multiply your seed, and will increase the growth of the fruits of your justice.

1Alleluia. Of the return of Haggai and Zachariah. Blessed is the man who fears the Lord. He will prefer his commandments exceedingly.

2His offspring will be powerful on the earth. The generation of the upright will be blessed.

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5Pleasing is the man who shows mercy and lends. He will order his words with judgment.

6For he will not be disturbed in eternity.

7The just one will be an everlasting memorial. He will not fear a report of disasters. His heart is prepared to hope in the Lord.

8His heart has been confirmed. He will not be disturbed, until he looks down upon his enemies.

9He has distributed, he has given to the poor. His justice shall remain from age to age. His horn shall be exalted in glory.

24Amen, amen, I say to you, unless the grain of wheat falls to the ground and dies, 25it remains alone. But if it dies, it yields much fruit. Whoever loves his life, will lose it. And whoever hates his life in this world, preserves it unto eternal life. 26If anyone serves me, let him follow me. And where I am, there too my minister shall be. If anyone has served me, my Father will honor him.