16th Sunday in Ordinary Time, Year A: 1st Reading

Wisdom 12:13, 16-19

There is no god besides you who have the care of all,
      that you need show you have not unjustly condemned.
   For your might is the source of justice;
      your mastery over all things makes you lenient to all.
   For you show your might when the perfection of your power is disbelieved;
      and in those who know you, you rebuke temerity.
   But though you are master of might, you judge with clemency,
      and with much lenience you govern us;
      for power, whenever you will, attends you.
   And you taught your people, by these deeds,
      that those who are just must be kind;
   and you gave your children good ground for hope
      that you would permit repentance for their sins.