10
we have written to renew our ties of brotherhood and friendship with you. We do not wish to become total strangers, and it has now been many years since your last communication.
11
Throughout the years we have taken every opportunity, on our festival days and other suitable days, to remember you when we have offered our sacrifices and made our prayers, as it is fitting and proper for brothers to do.
13
But we have had one series of troubles after another and have had to fight many wars, because we have been under constant attack by surrounding nations.
14
During this time of war, we did not wish to trouble you or our other allies and friends,
Scripture taken from the Good News Translation - Second Edition, Copyright 1992 by American Bible Society. Used by Permission.