Finishing 2 Esdras

Dear Friends,
Today I finished reading the Apocryphal book of 2 Esdras (see yesterday's post). Not an easy read, but nevertheless an interesting book. All I have left is 4 Maccabees (18 chapters long), and then I will be finished with my second read-through of the Apocrypha.

To mark this occasion, I'd like to share a couple verses from the final chapter of 2 Esdras. Perhaps they may be appropriate for the times in which we live.

"So listen to me, my chosen people. The days of misery will soon be here, but I will rescue you. Don't be afraid and don't give up--I am your God, and I will protect you."
2 Esdras 16:74-75 (CEV)