2 Maccabees 9:20-22

New Catholic Bible

²⁰ If you and your children are well and your affairs are prospering as you wish, I am delighted. As my hopes are directed toward heaven, ²¹ I cherish affectionate memories of your esteem and goodwill toward me. On my way back from the region of Persia I was afflicted with a distressing illness, and therefore I have thought it necessary to make provisions for the general welfare of all. ²² Actually I do not despair about my health, for I am confident that I will completely recover from my illness.