November 19th, 2003, 33rd Sunday in ordinary time. A reading from the book of Proverbs.

When one finds a worthy wife, her value is far beyond pearls. Her husband, entrusting his heart to her,

has an unfailing prize. She brings him good and not evil all the days of her life.

She obtains wool and flax and works with loving hands.

She puts her hands to the distaff and her fingers ply the spindle.

She reaches out her hands to the poor and extends her arms to the needy.

Charm is deceptive and beauty fleeting.

The woman who fears the Lord is to be praised.

Give her a reward for her labors,

and let her works praise her at the city gates.

The Word of the Lord Blessed are the Lord.

Blessed are those who fear the Lord,

who walk in his ways,

for you shall eat the fruit of your handiwork,

Blessed shall you be and favored.

Blessed are those who fear the Lord.

Your wife shall be like a fruitful vine

in the recesses of your home

your children like olive plants

around your table

blessed are those who fear the Lord.

Behold, thus is the man blessed

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