Psalm
R. Blessed are the poor in spirit; the kingdom of heaven is theirs!
Why should I fear in times of trouble, when the iniquity of my persecutors surrounds me, those who trust in their wealth and boast of the abundance of their riches? R.
Truly, no ransom avails for one’s life, there is no price one can give to God for it. For the ransom of life is costly, and can never suffice that one should live on forever and never see the grave. R.
Do not be afraid when some become rich, when the wealth of their houses increases. For when they die they will carry nothing away; their wealth will not go down after them. R.
Though in their lifetime they count themselves happy — for you are praised when you do well for yourself — they will go to the company of their ancestors, who will never again see the light. R.