This week in our Bible study, we are reading 1 Maccabees, with supplemental passages from 2 Maccabees, Sirach, and Wisdom.

I just wanted to comment that Sirach, chapter 2 — I love it!  For some reason, this passage really spoke to me when I was initially writing this blog entry (before I was taken down), and now reading it again now, it still captures my heart in a special way.  I think I still agree with my initial assessment — that I may have to post this somewhere in my house, even if it means expanding the Holy Hallway (I have one central area in my house where all my crosses and crucifixi are concentrated)….  🙂

Here are the little comments on the passage, at least as given in the footnotes of one of my Bibles:

Sir 2:1-11:  “Serving God is not without its trials; moreover, it must be done with sincerity, steadfastness and fidelity.  Misfortune and humiliation merely purify man and prove his worth.  Patience and unwavering trust in God are always rewarded with the benefits of God’s mercy and of lasting joy.”
Sir 2:12-18: “A warning to those who compromise their religion in time of affliction; they fail in courage and trust and therefore have no security. But those who fear the Lord through obedience, reverence, love and humility find his mercy equal to his majesty.”