Prophecy for Communities Mass, April 30, 2010 “Now I beg those who read this book not to be disheartened by these misfortunes, but to consider that these chastisements were meant not for the ruin but for the correction of our nation. It is, in fact, a sign of great kindness to punish sinners promptly instead of letting them go for long. Thus, in dealing with other nations, the Lord patiently waits until they reach the full measure of their sins before He punishes them; but with us He has decided to deal differently, in order that he may not have to punish us more severely later, when our sins have reached their fullness. He never withdraws His mercy from us. Although He disciplines us with misfortunes, He does not abandon His own people. Let these words suffice for recalling this truth.” —2 Maccabees 6:12-17