Books Jesus Read

126

Books Jesus Read

That day there was great rejoicing among the Jews of Nineveh. Ahikar and his nephew Nadab also arrived to celebrate the wedding of Tobias and Sarah. The celebration continued with gladness for seven days. Now, Tobit spoke to his son Tobias saying, “My son, see to it that your guide is well paid, and then some.” “Father,” replied Tobias, “I would gladly give him half of everything which has come to me. For he retrieved the money, restored my wife and healed you. And he has brought me safely home again!” The elder Tobit agreed that half of everything was due to the guide, so he called to him and said, “Take for your portion, half of all you have brought to us, and be blessed.” Then Raphael spoke privately to Tobit and Tobias saying, “Bless God and give him praise. Magnify him for all the things he has done for you in the sight of everyone. For it is good to exalt his name and right to declare his works. So, let no one hesitate to praise him. “Now, while it is good to keep a king’s secrets, it is better to reveal the works of God: do good, therefore, and no harm shall come upon you. Prayer with fasting is good, as is almsgiving with righteousness. A little righteousness is better than much unrighteousness. It is better to give alms than to save up gold. For giving purges your sin and delivers you from death. Those who give generously and act justly shall be filled with life. But sinners are their own worst enemy. “I shall keep nothing from you,” said Raphael, “for as I said, it is good to reveal the works of God. When you were praying, so also was your daughter-in-law, Sarah.