2 Esdras 8:31-33

Common English Bible

³¹ We and those before us have followed ways that lead to death, but it’s on account of us sinners that you are said to be merciful. ³² If you desire to have pity on us who have no good deeds to our credit, then you will be called compassionate. ³³ The righteous who have many works laid up with you will receive a reward for their own works.