1 Therefore, brothers and sisters, since we have found no small chance for repentance, seeing that we still have time, let us turn again to God who called us, while we still have One who will receive us. 2 For if we let go of these pleasures and subdue our soul by refusing to follow its evil desires, we shall share in the mercy of Jesus. 3 But you know that the day of judgment comes even now like a burning oven, and the powers of the heavens shall melt, and all the earth like lead melting in the fire, and then shall appear the hidden and the open works of humanity.⁠a 4 Giving to the poor, therefore, is good, just like repentance from sin. Fasting is better than prayer, but giving to the poor is better than both. And love covers a multitude of sins,⁠b while prayer from a good conscience delivers from death. Blessed is everyone found full of these virtues. For giving to the poor lifts the burden of sin.⁠c