Sirach 17:24-29

Revised Standard Version Catholic Edition

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,^[a]
    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.
²⁹ How great is the mercy of the Lord,
    and his forgiveness for those who turn to him!