Readings for February 5, 2017 Year A Fifth Sunday after the Epiphany

Please see How to Use Lection Connection

First Reading and Psalm

  • Isaiah 58:1-12
  • Psalm 112:1-10

Second Reading

  • I Corinthians 2:1-16

Gospel

  • Matthew 5:13-20

Full lections can be read here.

Based on the Readings as Set

YAHWEH calls upon Isaiah to make it clear to his people that true religion is more than just the observance of religious ceremonies and fasts. It is more important to see that these express a way of life lived in true obedience to God, abstaining from self-indulgence and extending grace and well being to those in need. When this is done the light of God’s people fully shines in his glory as they enjoy a restored relationship with him. The Psalmist affirms that those who fear YAHWEH and delight in his laws, especially supporting the poor, are firmly established in the midst of the changes and chances of life. They are a light in the darkness for those around them. St. Paul wants the Corinthian church to know that their faith was not inspired by any great words of worldly wisdom but upon the demonstration and power of the Spirit. This same Spirit has become theirs, giving them spiritual discernment and enabling them to understand the mind of Christ in a world subject to spirits of darkness. In the Gospel Jesus calls his followers both the salt of the earth and the light of the world. As we more fully keep the laws of God before a watching world, more and more glory is given to the Father and the prophetic vision of the kingdom of heaven comes closer to realization.

As Introductions

Old Testament

YAHWEH calls upon Isaiah to make it clear to his people that true religion is more than just the observance of religious ceremonies and fasts. It is more important to see that these express a way of life lived in true obedience to God, abstaining from self-indulgence and extending grace and well being to those in need. When this is done the light of God’s people fully shines in his glory as they enjoy a restored relationship with him.

Psalm

The Psalmist affirms that those who fear YAHWEH and delight in his laws, especially supporting the poor, are firmly established in the midst of the changes and chances of life. They are a light in the darkness for those around them.

New Testament

St. Paul wants the Corinthian church to know that their faith was not inspired by any great words of worldly wisdom but upon the demonstration and power of the Spirit. This same Spirit has become theirs, giving them spiritual discernment and enabling them to understand the mind of Christ in a world subject to spirits of darkness.

Gospel

In the Gospel Jesus calls his followers both the salt of the earth and the light of the world. As we more fully keep the laws of God before a watching world, more and more glory is given to the Father and the prophetic vision of the kingdom of heaven comes closer to realization.

Readings for January 29, 2017 Year A Fourth Sunday after the Epiphany

Please see How to Use Lection Connection

 

First Reading and Psalm

  • Micah 6:1-8
  • Psalm 15

Second Reading

  • 1 Corinthians 1:18-31

Gospel

  • Matthew 5:1-12

Full lections can be read here.

Based on the Readings as Set

The prophet Micah, writing at a time when Judah had fallen into disobedience, pictures YAHWEH calling the mountains as witnesses to what he teaches his wayward people. Do they not remember his mighty salvation in bringing them up out of Egypt to the Promised Land against fierce opposition along the way? It is not more ritual sacrifice that he requires now, but rather that people humbly keep in step with him. The Psalmist points out that those who would dwell with YAHWEH must walk blamelessly, speaking and doing the truth no matter the cost. St. Paul wants to ensure that no one can boast that they have achieved their own salvation: it is the Lord alone who saves. The message of the cross contradicts the means by which human beings normally acquire spiritual truth. It is foolishness to the Greeks who seek wisdom and weakness to the Jews who seek powerful signs. Matthew recounts how Jesus, having ascended a mountain, teaches his people about the path that leads to God. The ensuing Beatitudes embody a life of meekness and humility that will draw opposition and even persecution by contradicting a wayward world.

As Introductions

Old Testament

The prophet Micah, writing at a time when Judah had fallen into disobedience, pictures YAHWEH calling the mountains as witnesses to what he teaches his wayward people. Do they not remember his mighty salvation in bringing them up out of Egypt to the Promised Land against fierce opposition along the way? It is not more ritual sacrifice that he requires now, but rather that people humbly keep in step with him.

Psalm

The Psalmist points out that those who would dwell with YAHWEH must walk blamelessly, speaking and doing the truth no matter the cost.

New Testament

St. Paul wants to ensure that no one can boast that they have achieved their own salvation: it is the Lord alone who saves. The message of the cross contradicts the means by which human beings normally acquire spiritual truth. It is foolishness to the Greeks who seek wisdom and weakness to the Jews who seek powerful signs.

Gospel

Matthew recounts how Jesus, having ascended a mountain, teaches his people about the path that leads to God. The ensuing Beatitudes embody a life of meekness and humility that will draw opposition and even persecution by contradicting a wayward world.

 

Readings for January 22, 2017 Year A Third Sunday after the Epiphany

Please see How to Use Lection Connection

 

First Reading and Psalm

  • Isaiah 9:1-4
  • Psalm 27:1, 4-9

Second Reading

  • 1 Corinthians 1:10-18

Gospel

  • Matthew 4:12-23

Full lections can be read here.

Based on the Readings as Set

The prophet Isaiah, speaking at a time of distress, declares that a time is coming in which Galilee, although dominated by Gentiles and held in contempt, will be the first to experience the glorious light of liberation. This will happen like it did when Gideon’s tiny band defeated the powerful army of the Midians in the days of old. The Psalmist declares his trust in YAHWEH as his light and salvation and in whose presence he desires to dwell concealed from his enemies. There he will be sure to rise above them and be safe, if only YAHWEH will grant him a hearing. St. Paul exhorts the Corinthians to live in the unity of the one in whose name they have been baptized. He reminds them that his own calling is not even to baptize, let alone have people be his disciples. He is only a servant of Christ, who has sent him to preach the gospel of the cross that, although seeming foolish to unbelievers, is actually the power of God for salvation. St. Matthew tells us that when Jesus withdrew to obscurity in Galilee, a region long under a Gentile cloud, he was fulfilling the prophecy of Isaiah. It is there that he begins to assemble his tiny band of disciples and the dawning light of God’s kingdom blessings begins to shine in the darkness.

As Introductions

Old Testament

The prophet Isaiah, speaking at a time of distress, declares that a time is coming in which Galilee, although dominated by Gentiles and held in contempt, will be the first to experience the glorious light of liberation. This will happen like it did when Gideon’s tiny band defeated the powerful army of the Midians in the days of old.

Psalm

The Psalmist declares his trust in YAHWEH as his light and salvation and in whose presence he desires to dwell concealed from his enemies. There he will be sure to rise above them and be safe, if only YAHWEH will grant him a hearing.

New Testament

St. Paul exhorts the Corinthians to live in the unity of the one in whose name they have been baptized. He reminds them that his own calling is not even to baptize, let alone have people be his disciples. He is only a servant of Christ, who has sent him to preach the gospel of the cross that, although seeming foolish to unbelievers, is actually the power of God for salvation.

Gospel

St. Matthew tells us that when Jesus withdrew to obscurity in Galilee, a region long under a Gentile cloud, he was fulfilling the prophecy of Isaiah. It is there that he begins to assemble his tiny band of disciples and the dawning light of God’s kingdom blessings begins to shine in the darkness.

 

Readings for January 15, 2017 Year A Second Sunday after the Epiphany

Please see How to Use Lection Connection

 

First Reading and Psalm

  • Isaiah 49:1-7
  • Psalm 40:1-11

Second Reading

  • 1 Corinthians 1:1-9

Gospel

  • John 1:29-42

Full lections can be read here.

Based on the Readings as Set

Using the striking image of the nation as a sharpened arrow pointed at the nations, Isaiah speaks in the voice of YAHWEH’s chosen servant, Israel. The servant’s task is to return to God and be used for his own glory, manifesting the light of salvation to the nations. Although Israel is presently despised, the glorious blessing of YAHWEH upon it will so sharply strike the nations that even foreign kings shall worship its God. The Psalmist counts himself as someone whom YAHWEH has rescued from the pit, set on a rock, and enabled to sing a new song of praise that leads many to faith. It was not sacrifice that has saved him but a heart receptive to YAHWEH’s steadfast love and mercy. St. Paul celebrates the grace of God that has been manifested to the Corinthians. Every spiritual gift has been poured out upon them as part of the fellowship of Christ being instituted throughout the world. Today’s Gospel portrays the ministry of John the Baptist as a humble servant pointing to one greater than he. He has seen the Holy Spirit descend like a dove upon his cousin Jesus, unmistakably identifying him as the Son of God. Two of his own disciples then begin to follow Jesus, leading to the recruitment of Peter, or “the Rock” on whom the church will be set.

As Introductions

Old Testament

Using the striking image of the nation as a sharpened arrow pointed at the nations, Isaiah speaks in the voice of YAHWEH’s chosen servant, Israel. The servant’s task is to return to God and be used for his own glory, manifesting the light of salvation to the nations. Although Israel is presently despised, the glorious blessing of YAHWEH upon it will so sharply strike the nations that even foreign kings shall worship its God.

Psalm

The Psalmist counts himself as someone whom YAHWEH has rescued from the pit, set on a rock, and enabled to sing a new song of praise that leads many to faith. It was not sacrifice that has saved him but a heart receptive to YAHWEH’s steadfast love and mercy.

New Testament

St. Paul celebrates the grace of God that has been manifested to the Corinthians. Every spiritual gift has been poured out upon them as part of the fellowship of Christ being instituted throughout the world.

Gospel

Today’s Gospel portrays the ministry of John the Baptist as a humble servant pointing to one greater than he. He has seen the Holy Spirit descend like a dove upon his cousin Jesus, unmistakably identifying him as the Son of God. Two of his own disciples then begin to follow Jesus, leading to the recruitment of Peter, or “the Rock” on whom the church will be set.

Readings for January 8, 2017 Year A Baptism of the Lord

Please see How to Use Lection Connection

Lection connection for January 6, 2017 Epiphany of the Lord  can  be found here.

 

First Reading and Psalm

  • Isaiah 42:1-9
  • Psalm 29

Second Reading

  • Acts 10:34-43

Gospel

  • Matthew 3:13-17

Full lections can be read here.

Based on the Readings as Set

Through Isaiah YAHWEH speaks of sending his chosen servant to bring about justice throughout the earth. He will be anointed with the divine Spirit, but his task will be accomplished without fanfare, almost unnoticed. All the same, a new era will dawn and in him a covenant will be given, blind eyes will be opened and prisoners set free. The Psalmist first calls all heaven to worship YAHWEH while arrayed in the splendor of holiness. And then he exults in the awesome power of YAHWEH’s mighty voice as he sits enthroned over all. May this great God grant strength and peace to his people! In Acts we read of how Peter, having had his own eyes opened to the truth, addresses the Gentile centurion Cornelius with the good news: God is not partial to the Jews after all: Jesus is Lord of all. Although he began his ministry among the Jews in the days of John the baptizer, his resurrection revealed him as judge of the living and the dead. Anyone who believes in him will be set free from his or her sins. In the Gospel, John the Baptist defers to Jesus as his superior but Jesus insists on undergoing baptism to fulfill all righteousness. His baptism culminates with his being anointed with the divine Spirit and the voice of God mightily proclaiming him as his beloved Son.

As Introductions

Old Testament

Through Isaiah YAHWEH speaks of sending his chosen servant to bring about justice throughout the earth. He will be anointed with the divine Spirit, but his task will be accomplished without fanfare, almost unnoticed. All the same, a new era will dawn and in him a covenant will be given, blind eyes will be opened and prisoners set free.

Psalm

The Psalmist first calls all heaven to worship YAHWEH while arrayed in the splendor of holiness. And then he exults in the awesome power of YAHWEH’s mighty voice as he sits enthroned over all. May this great God grant strength and peace to his people!

New Testament

Acts we read of how Peter, having had his own eyes opened to the truth, addresses the Gentile centurion Cornelius with the good news: God is not partial to the Jews after all: Jesus is Lord of all. Although he began his ministry among the Jews in the days of John the baptizer, his resurrection revealed him as judge of the living and the dead. Anyone who believes in him will be set free from his or her sins.

Gospel

In the Gospel, John the Baptist defers to Jesus as his superior but Jesus insists on undergoing baptism to fulfill all righteousness. His baptism culminates with his being anointed with the divine Spirit and the voice of God mightily proclaiming him as his beloved Son.

Readings for January 6, 2017 Year A The Epiphany of Our Lord

Please see How to Use Lection Connection

 

First Reading and Psalm

  • Isaiah 60:1-6
  • Psalm 72:1-7, 10-14

Second Reading

  • Ephesians 3:1-12

Gospel

  • Matthew 2:1-12

Full lections can be read here.

Based on the Readings as Set

Isaiah informs the nation of Israel that, while things are indeed dark at present, a time will come when all that will change dramatically. The glory of YAHWEH himself will shine upon them so powerfully that all the nations will be attracted to it. They shall bring the wealth of the seas and the land, including gold and frankincense, to present to a joyful Israel. The Psalm is a prayer for the king, that he may rule in justice and righteousness, defending the poor and crushing the oppressor. May the kings of the nations bring him tribute and gifts, bowing down and serving him. May he live forever! St. Paul speaks of the mystery, now revealed especially in his own apostleship, of how the Gentiles are to be included in the people of God. This was always God’s purpose in sending Jesus, to whom anyone can come by faith. St. Matthew tells of how wise men from the Gentile lands to the East arrived at the court of King Herod with news that a king must have been born nearby, one whose birth was marked by a great sign in the sky. Sent to the village of Bethlehem and following the star, they found the infant. Bowing deeply, they presented royal gifts of gold, frankincense and myrrh. Leaving directly for home, they failed to report to Herod because he had other plans for the child who would be king.

As Introductions

Old Testament

Isaiah informs the nation of Israel that, while things are indeed dark at present, a time will come when all that will change dramatically. The glory of YAHWEH himself will shine upon them so powerfully that all the nations will be attracted to it. They shall bring the wealth of the seas and the land, including gold and frankincense, to present to a joyful Israel.

Psalm

The Psalm is a prayer for the king, that he may rule in justice and righteousness, defending the poor and crushing the oppressor. May the kings of the nations bring him tribute and gifts, bowing down and serving him. May he live forever!

New Testament

St. Paul speaks of the mystery, now revealed especially in his own apostleship, of how the Gentiles are to be included in the people of God. This was always God’s purpose in sending Jesus, to whom anyone can come by faith.

Gospel

St. Matthew tells of how wise men from the Gentile lands to the East arrived at the court of King Herod with news that a king must have been born nearby, one whose birth was marked by a great sign in the sky. Sent to the village of Bethlehem and following the star, they found the infant. Bowing deeply, they presented royal gifts of gold, frankincense and myrrh. Leaving directly for home, they failed to report to Herod because he had other plans for the child who would be king.