⁶ but the widow^[a] who lives for pleasure is dead even while she lives.^(A)

⁵ You have lived on the earth in luxury and in pleasure; you have nourished your hearts in a day of slaughter.^(A)

The Message to Sardis

3 “And to the angel of the church in Sardis write: These are the words of him who has the seven spirits of God and the seven stars:

“I know your works; you have a name of being alive, but you are dead.^(A)

²⁴ for this son of mine was dead and is alive again; he was lost and is found!’ And they began to celebrate.^(A)

³² But we had to celebrate and rejoice, because this brother of yours was dead and has come to life; he was lost and has been found.’ ”^(A)

¹⁴ for everything that becomes visible is light. Therefore it says,

From Death to Life

2 You were dead through the trespasses and sins

¹³ A few days later the younger son gathered all he had and traveled to a distant region, and there he squandered his wealth in dissolute living.

²² But Jesus said to him, “Follow me, and let the dead bury their own dead.”^(A)