Ninth Sunday after Pentecost August 6, 2017 Proper 13, Year A

 

Please see How to Use Lection Connection

Full lections can be read here.

Based on the Readings as Set

First Reading (Genesis 32:22-31)

On his way home after an absence of twenty years Jacob has an odd encounter with a stranger. They wrestle and Jacob prevails, demanding a blessing in order to release his opponent. The latter changes Jacob’s name to Israel, or “he who strives with God and prevails”. Jacob realizes he has been face to face with God and lived to tell about it.

Psalm (17:1-7, 15)

This Psalm is a cry to Yahweh for help. It comes from a faithful Israelite, one who has avoided wickedness and violence and who is therefore assured of Yahweh’s steadfast love. Even in his current circumstances he is confident that he will see the face of God.

Second Reading (Romans 9:1-5)

St. Paul yearns for his own Jewish people to come to faith in Christ and is deeply grief-stricken at their resistance to the Gospel, so much so that he would even become accursed for their sake. After all, they are the chosen people and all the blessings of the promises and covenants rightly belong to them, including the Messiah who is one of their own.

Gospel (Matthew 14:13-21)

After he learns of the death of John the Baptist, Jesus desires to be alone but a crowd of over five thousand follows him into the wilderness. He takes compassion on them, meeting their needs by healing their sick and even feeding them by miraculously multiplying five loaves and two fish. In fact, he provides so much food that twelve baskets of leftovers are collected.

CONNECTION SUGGESTIONS

  • Face to face with God
  • The fragile advantages of the people of God
  • What it means to be an Israelite
  • God’s abundant provision, more than we need for ourselves
  • Receiving blessings from God/Jesus
  • God hears and answers prayer/more than meets our need

Based on the Alternative Set of Readings

First Reading (Isaiah 55:1-5)

Through Isaiah Yahweh is calling his people Israel to a great feast made freely available to all, promising that an everlasting covenant will be made because of his faithful love for David. Yahweh will so bless them that other nations will come in response.

Psalm (145:8-9, 14-21)

The Psalmist extolls Yahweh as the universal God who sustains all of creation out of his love and compassion, upholding the fallen and meeting the needs of all creatures. He hears and answers those who call upon him in truth and brings justice to the wicked. All of humanity will come to acknowledge him as God.

Second Reading (Romans 9:1-5)

St. Paul yearns for his own Jewish people to come to faith in Christ and is deeply grief-stricken at their resistance to the Gospel, so much so that he would even become accursed for their sake. After all, they are the chosen people and all the blessings of the promises and covenants rightly belong to them, including the Messiah who is one of their own.

Gospel (Matthew 14:13-21)

After he learns of the death of John the Baptist, Jesus desires to be alone but a crowd of over five thousand follows him into the wilderness. He takes compassion upon them, meeting their needs by healing their sick and even feeding them by miraculously multiplying five loaves and two fish. In fact, he provides so much food that twelve baskets of leftovers are collected.

CONNECTION SUGGESTIONS

  • God provides a feast
  • The love and compassion of God
  • God hears and answers prayer/more than meets our need
  • All nations will come to Yahweh
  • The fragile advantages of the people of God
  • What it means to be an Israelite
  • God’s abundant provision, more than we need for ourselves
  • Receiving blessings from God/Jesus

Eighth Sunday after Pentecost July 30, 2017, Proper 12, Year A

There has been small changes to the format for Lection Connection. Please  review these changes at How to Use Lection Connection

Full lections can be read here.

Based on the Readings as Set

First Reading (Genesis 29:15-28)

Jacob, sent by his mother Rebekah to seek a wife among her relatives back in Haran, agrees to work seven years for his uncle Laban in order to marry his beautiful daughter Rachel. He loves Rachel so much that the years of waiting seem as nothing. However, Laban tricks him into marrying his older daughter Leah instead, and then agrees to let him have Rachel in exchange for another seven years of servitude.

Psalm (105:1-11, 45b)

The Psalmist exhorts the people to live continuously in the presence of Yahweh, giving thanks and praise, seeking his strength. Remembering what he has done in the past and his eternal covenant with Abraham, Isaac and Jacob, they are called to a life of obedience.

OR

Alternative Psalm for these Readings (Psalm 128)

The Psalmist promises a productive life, especially in terms of family life, for those who walk with Yahweh. This is expressed in terms of the provision of many children and life long enough to see them have children of their own.

Second Reading (Romans 8:26-39)

St. Paul teaches that the Holy Spirit is active in our prayer, even if we don’t know what to pray. He points out that the God who cannot fail is working for all those he has called into the new family of his Son. Therefore, in spite of current severe afflictions all things will work out for those who bear his Son’s image. In spite of everything we remain victorious because nothing, including death itself, can separate us from his great love in Christ Jesus our Lord.

Gospel (Matthew 13:31-33; 44-52)

In a series of simple parables Jesus outlines various aspects of the Kingdom of God: like a seed it will begin tiny and end up huge; like yeast it will permeate into everything; like hidden treasure or a fantastic pearl it is worth our all; like a fishnet it will take in a great variety of persons but not all will pass judgment; like the good master of a household, a leader will draw on both old and new wisdom.

CONNECTION SUGGESTIONS

  • the blessings of living with and for the Lord
  • the value of family, including the family of God (Alternative Psalm)
  • the surpassing value of following the Lord
  • the importance of prayer and praise (Psalm as Set)
  • the unfailing purposes of God
  • the difference between the end and the beginning of God’s work

Based on the Alternative Set of Readings

First Reading (I Kings 3:5-12)

When Yahweh appears to the young man Solomon, son of the great king David, knowing he is just a beginner, he wisely asks for understanding in order to govern God’s chosen people Israel. A pleased Yahweh grants him his request as well as blessing him with long life, victory over his enemies and a uniquely high status among rulers for all time.

Psalm (119:129-136)

The Psalmist extols the wonders of Yahweh’s laws that give light and understanding to the simple. They are an expression of his grace and keep us on the right path towards Yahweh and away from evil. Help us to know them and follow them and even mourn when they are neglected.

Second Reading (Romans 8:26-39)

St. Paul teaches that the Holy Spirit is active in our prayer, even if we don’t know what to pray. He points out that the God who cannot fail is working for all those he has called into the new family of his Son. Therefore, in spite of current severe afflictions all things will work out for those who bear his Son’s image. In spite of everything we remain victorious because nothing, including death itself, can separate us from his great love in Christ Jesus our Lord.

Gospel (Matthew 13:31-33; 44-52)

In a series of simple parables Jesus outlines various aspects of the Kingdom of God: like a seed it will begin tiny and end up huge; like yeast it will permeate into everything; like hidden treasure or a fantastic pearl it is worth our all; like a fishnet it will take in a great variety of persons but not all will pass judgment; like the good master of a household, a leader will draw on both old and new wisdom.

CONNECTION SUGGESTIONS

  • led by the Lord/the Spirit/the Word
  • the unfailing purposes of God
  • the way of the Lord versus the way of the world
  • a new world coming for the faithful
  • the difference between the end and the beginning of God’s work
  • God guides the simple and the inexperienced through his wisdom

 

Readings for July 23, 2017 Year A Seventh Sunday after Pentecost

The format for Lection Connection has changed slightly. Please see How to Use Lection Connection for an explanation of these changes.

 

First Reading and Psalm

  • Genesis 28:10-19a
  • Psalm 139:1-12, 23-24

OR

  • Isaiah 44:6-8
  • Psalm 86:11-17

Second Reading

  • Romans 8:12-25

Gospel

  • Matthew 13:24-30, 36-43

Full lections can be read here.

Based on the Readings as Set

First Reading

On his way to find a wife among his relatives in Haran, Jacob has a dream of a ladder between earth and heaven right where he lay. Yahweh confirms that he is heir to the same promise he had made to Abraham and vows that he will not leave him until all is accomplished and the whole earth is blessed. Awestruck at the presence of Yahweh, Jacob calls the place Beth-el, or “house of God”.

Psalm

The Psalmist, awestruck that Yahweh knows him so intimately, invites divine examination in order to expose any wickedness and be led in the everlasting way. Because there is no place where the Spirit of the LORD is absent, he remains confident that Yahweh’s hand will protect him wherever he goes.

Second Reading

St. Paul continues to show how being led by the Spirit contrasts with being led by the flesh. The former leads to death, the latter to life, and adoption as God’s children and so heirs of his coming new creation. Any suffering along the way cannot compare to this coming glory for those already bearing the first fruits of the Spirit.

Gospel

Jesus tells the crowd about a farmer who sowed good seed on his land only to discover that an enemy had also sowed weeds. He decides to put off separating the weeds and the wheat until harvest. To his disciples he explains that this is about how both children of the kingdom and the children of the evil one exist side by side in the present world but that at the end of the age they will be separated, the former to shine in the sun, the latter to burn in the furnace of fire.

CONNECTION SUGGESTIONS

  • led by the Lord/the Spirit
  • the work of the Spirit
  • the way of the Lord versus the way of the world
  • a new world coming for the faithful
  • awe at the presence of God
  • justice will prevail in spite of current circumstances

Based on the Alternative Readings

First Reading

In straightforward simplicity Yahweh asserts his uniqueness as the one and only God. He challenges other so-called gods to prove themselves by predicting the future as he has done. Israel, witnessing this truth over and over again throughout history, has every reason to trust in him and not be afraid of current circumstances.

Psalm

The Psalmist pleads for an undivided heart, focused wholly upon Yahweh and serving him alone, glorifying his name in worship. Based upon his history with Yahweh, whose steadfast love has delivered him before, he asks for deliverance from those who disregard the ways of Yahweh and now threaten his very life.

Second Reading

St. Paul continues to show how being led by the Spirit contrasts with being led by the flesh. The former leads to death, the latter to life, and adoption as God’s children and so heirs of his coming new creation. Any suffering along the way cannot compare to this coming glory for those already bearing the first fruits of the Spirit.

Gospel

Jesus tells the crowd about a farmer who sowed good seed on his land only to discover that an enemy had also sowed weeds. He decides to put off separating the weeds and the wheat until harvest. To his disciples he explains that this is about how both children of the kingdom and the children of the evil one exist side by side in the present world but that at the end of the age they will be separated, the former to shine in the sun, the latter to burn in the furnace of fire.

CONNECTION SUGGESTIONS

  • led by the Lord/the Spirit
  • the work of the Spirit
  • the way of the Lord versus the way of the world
  • a new world coming for the faithful
  • there is only one God and, all powerful, he will accomplish his purpose
  • justice will prevail in spite of current circumstances
  • trust on the basis of God’s historical acts of salvation

 

Readings for July 16, 2017 Year A Sixth Sunday after Pentecost

Please see How to Use Lection Connection

First Reading and Psalm

  • Genesis 25:19-34
  • Psalm 119:105-112

OR

  • Isaiah 55:10-13
  • Psalm 65:(1-8), 9-13

Second Reading

  • Romans 8:1-11

Gospel

  • Matthew 13:1-9, 18-23

Full lections can be read here.

Based on the Readings as Set

With the provision of Rebekah as a wife for Isaac, Yahweh’s word of many descendants for Abraham takes the next step to fulfillment. Her barrenness is only a temporary threat that is soon overcome and she soon conceives twins. Yahweh’s word to her is that, contrary to custom, the older will serve the younger. Later, a famished Esau despises his birthright, thoughtlessly selling it to Jacob for a simple meal. The Psalmist, although severely afflicted and under threat, declares his confidence in the word of Yahweh as his heritage forever. The divine word will light his way and provide him with life. St. Paul contrasts the way of Law with the way of the Spirit of Christ. Jesus has fulfilled the Law and its requirements and it has no more power over those who belong to him. The Law leads to death because of the flesh, while the Spirit, given to each Christian, leads to life. Jesus uses the parable of the sower to demonstrate the extreme fruitfulness of the word of the kingdom. But it will not grow properly in those who do not understand, persist in persecution or allow wealth or the cares of the world to distract them.

As Introductions and/or Bulletin Use

First Reading

With the provision of Rebekah as a wife for Isaac, Yahweh’s word of many descendants for Abraham takes the next step to fulfillment. Her barrenness is only a temporary threat that is soon overcome and she soon conceives twins. Yahweh’s word to her is that, contrary to custom, the older will serve the younger. Later, a famished Esau despises his birthright, thoughtlessly selling it to Jacob for a simple meal.

Psalm

The Psalmist, although severely afflicted and under threat, declares his confidence in the word of Yahweh as his heritage forever. The divine word will light his way and provide him with life.

Second Reading

St. Paul contrasts the way of Law with the way of the Spirit of Christ. Jesus has fulfilled the Law and its requirements and it has no more power over those who belong to him. The Law leads to death because of the flesh, while the Spirit, given to each Christian, leads to life.

Gospel

Jesus uses the parable of the sower to demonstrate the extreme fruitfulness of the word of the kingdom. But it will not grow properly in those who do not understand, persist in persecution or allow wealth or the cares of the world to distract them.

Based on the Alternative Readings

Isaiah affirms that Yahweh’s word is as fruitful as rain and snow on the earth, always accomplishing its purpose. He then tells Israel that the nation will come back from exile in great joy and peace. The event will serve as an everlasting memorial as even creation itself is transformed. The Psalmist celebrates God’s active care in answering prayer, forgiving sins, living among his people and delivering them. As creator and sustainer he is the hope of all humanity who benefit directly from his watering of the earth, causing it to produce abundant fruit. St. Paul contrasts the way of Law with the way of the Spirit of Christ. Jesus has fulfilled the Law and its requirements and it has no more power over those who belong to him. The Law leads to death because of the flesh, while the Spirit, given to each Christian, leads to life. Jesus uses the parable of the sower to demonstrate the extreme fruitfulness of the word of the kingdom. But it will not grow properly in those who do not understand, persist in persecution or allow wealth or the cares of the world to distract them.

As Introductions and/or Bulletin Use

First Reading

Isaiah affirms that Yahweh’s word is as fruitful as rain and snow on the earth, always accomplishing its purpose. He then tells Israel that the nation will come back from exile in great joy and peace. The event will serve as an everlasting memorial as even creation itself is transformed.

Psalm

The Psalmist celebrates God’s active care in answering prayer, forgiving sins, living among his people and delivering them. As creator and sustainer he is the hope of all humanity who benefit directly from his watering of the earth, causing it to produce abundant fruit.

Second Reading

St. Paul contrasts the way of Law with the way of the Spirit of Christ. Jesus has fulfilled the Law and its requirements and it has no more power over those who belong to him. The Law leads to death because of the flesh, while the Spirit, given to each Christian, leads to life.

Gospel

Jesus uses the parable of the sower to demonstrate the extreme fruitfulness of the word of the kingdom. But it will not grow properly in those who do not understand, persist in persecution or allow wealth or the cares of the world to distract them.

Readings for July 9, 2017 Year A Fifth Sunday after Pentecost

Please see How to Use Lection Connection

First Reading and Psalm

  • Genesis 24:34-38, 42-49, 58-67
  • Psalm 45:10-17 or Song of Solomon 2:8-13

OR

  • Zechariah 9:9-12
  • Psalm 145:8-14

Second Reading

  • Romans 7:15-25a

Gospel

  • Matthew 11:16-19,25-30

Full lections can be read here.

Based on the Readings as Set

Abraham’s servant encountered the beautiful Rebekah at a distant well in his master’s former homeland. He then introduces himself to her brother Laban, a cousin of Abraham, explaining that he is on a quest to find a wife for Isaac among his relatives. His account shows that Yahweh is clearly directing the process and Rebekah accepts the invitation to go with him and become Isaac’s wife. On the occasion of a royal wedding the Psalmist exhorts the bride to embrace her new position, one that will result in many personal blessings and universal renown. St. Paul laments the perversity of the human condition in that while we want to live by God’s law we seem unable to do so. Instead we are prisoners of the flesh, the inclination to sin, and only Christ can set us free. Jesus observes that no matter how God’s invitation is presented, it is perversely rejected. He claims an exclusive authority to reveal the Father to those he chooses and, for those who accept him, he will share their heavy burdens and give them rest.

As Introductions and/or Bulletin Use

First Reading

Abraham’s servant encountered the beautiful Rebekah at a distant well in his master’s former homeland. He then introduces himself to her brother Laban, a cousin of Abraham, explaining that he is on a quest to find a wife for Isaac among his relatives. His account shows that Yahweh is clearly directing the process and Rebekah accepts the invitation to go with him and become Isaac’s wife.

Psalm

On the occasion of a royal wedding the Psalmist exhorts the bride to embrace her new position, one that will result in many personal blessings and universal renown.

Second Reading

St. Paul laments the perversity of the human condition in that while we want to live by God’s law we seem unable to do so. Instead we are prisoners of the flesh, the inclination to sin, and only Christ can set us free.

Gospel

Jesus observes that no matter how God’s invitation is presented, it is perversely rejected. He claims an exclusive authority to reveal the Father to those he chooses and, for those who accept him, he will share their heavy burdens and give them rest.

Based on the Readings as Set but using the Alternate Psalm

Abraham’s servant encountered the beautiful Rebekah at a distant well in his master’s former homeland. He then introduces himself to her brother Laban, a cousin of Abraham, explaining that he is on a quest to find a wife for Isaac among his relatives. His account shows that Yahweh is clearly directing the process and Rebekah accepts the invitation to go with him and become Isaac’s wife. The writer of the Song of Solomon paints a seductive picture a charming man who bids his love to come away with him. As winter is giving way to spring it is now the time for change. St. Paul laments the perversity of the human condition in that while we want to live by God’s law we seem unable to do so. Instead we are prisoners of the flesh, the inclination to sin, and only Christ can set us free. Jesus observes that no matter how God’s gracious invitation is presented, it is often deliberately and perversely rejected. He claims an exclusive authority to reveal the Father to those he chooses and, for those who accept him, he will share their heavy burdens and give them rest.

As Introductions and/or Bulletin Use

First Reading

Abraham’s servant encountered the beautiful Rebekah at a distant well in his master’s former homeland. He then introduces himself to her brother Laban, a cousin of Abraham, explaining that he is on a quest to find a wife for Isaac among his relatives. His account shows that Yahweh is clearly directing the process and Rebekah accepts the invitation to go with him and become Isaac’s wife.

Psalm

The writer of the Song of Solomon paints a seductive picture a charming man who bids his love to come away with him. As winter is giving way to spring it is now the time for change.

Second Reading

St. Paul laments the perversity of the human condition in that while we want to live by God’s law we seem unable to do so. Instead we are prisoners of the flesh, the inclination to sin, and only Christ can set us free.

Gospel

Jesus observes that no matter how God’s invitation is presented, it is perversely rejected. He claims an exclusive authority to reveal the Father to those he chooses and, for those who accept him, he will share their heavy burdens and give them rest.

Based on the Alternative Readings

The prophet Zechariah characterizes Israel as “daughter Zion” and calls her to rejoice at the arrival of her king, who will bring peace to the nations as they come under his rule. Prisoners now in captivity will be set free and become prisoners of hope instead. The Psalmist describes Yahweh as abounding in steadfast love and good to all. His works declare his glory and power while his dominion is everlasting, uplifting the downtrodden. St. Paul laments the perversity of the human condition in that while we want to live by God’s law we seem unable to do so. Instead we are prisoners of the flesh, the inclination to sin, and only Christ can set us free. Jesus observes that no matter how God’s gracious invitation is presented, it is often deliberately and perversely rejected. He claims an exclusive authority to reveal the Father to those he chooses and, for those who accept him, he will share their heavy burdens and give them rest.

As Introductions and/or Bulletin Use

First Reading

The prophet Zechariah characterizes Israel as “daughter Zion” and calls her to rejoice at the arrival of her king, who will bring peace to the nations as they come under his rule. Prisoners now in captivity will be set free and become prisoners of hope instead.

Psalm

The Psalmist describes Yahweh as abounding in steadfast love and good to all. His works declare his glory and power while his dominion is everlasting, uplifting the downtrodden.

Second Reading

St. Paul laments the perversity of the human condition in that while we want to live by God’s law we seem unable to do so. Instead we are prisoners of the flesh, the inclination to sin, and only Christ can set us free.

Gospel

Jesus observes that no matter how God’s gracious invitation is presented, it is often deliberately and perversely rejected. He claims an exclusive authority to reveal the Father to those he chooses and, for those who accept him, he will share their heavy burdens and give them rest.