Fourth Sunday of Easter, May 3, 2020

Please see How to Use Lection Connection

Full lections can be read here.

 

Based on the Readings as Set

First Reading (Acts 2:42-47)

The early church, newly endowed with the Holy Spirit, is radically committed to the apostles’ teaching and to a joyful common life both at home and at the temple. The apostles perform awe-inspiring miracles and many are drawn to join the new group.

Psalm (23)

The Psalmist sees the Lord as the good shepherd who looks after his flock, abundantly providing for them even in difficult circumstances. Goodness and mercy characterize a life lived in his fold.

Second Reading (1 Peter 2:19-25)

Peter points Christians who suffer unjustly to the example of Jesus, their true shepherd. He suffered greatly although innocent, patiently content to trust in God while bearing their sins and freeing them to follow the paths of righteousness.

Gospel (John 10:1-10)

Jesus refers to himself as both the door of the sheepfold and the shepherd whose voice the sheep know. They enter by him and are saved and pastured by him alone. Under his care the sheep enjoy abundant life. Other shepherds are pretenders to be avoided.

 

CONNECTION SUGGESTIONS

  • Human beings need caring for in a dangerous world
  • Jesus applies to himself the Old Testament roles of the Lord God
  • Christianity is a flock activity
  • Jesus is the indispensable centre of the Christian faith
  • Following the Lord means living as he commands

SENTENCE (BAS, Canada)

I am the good shepherd, says the Lord: I know my own and my own know me. John 10.14

COLLECT OF THE DAY (BAS, Canada)

O God of peace,
who brought again from the dead our Lord Jesus Christ, that great shepherd of the sheep,
by the blood of the eternal covenant,
make us perfect in every good work to do your will, and work in us that which is well-pleasing in your sight; through Jesus Christ our Lord. AMEN

 

Third Sunday of Easter, April 26, 2020

Please see How to Use Lection Connection

Full lections can be read here.

 

Based on the Readings as Set

First Reading (Acts 2:14a, 36-41)

In his Pentecost sermon to the Jews in Jerusalem, Peter affirms that Jesus’ resurrection means that God has made him whom they crucified both Lord and Messiah. Three thousand accept his invitation to repent of their sins and receive Christian baptism.

Psalm (116:1-4, 12-19)

The Psalmist declares his love for the Lord because when he called upon him, he was saved from the bonds of death. The death of the faithful is always precious to the Lord and for this reason he is worthy of both thanks and praise.

Second Reading (1 Peter 1:17-23)

Peter affirms that the death and resurrection of Jesus are “end-time” events, making its future blessedness at least partly a present reality for those who believe. It is being born again to a new way of life marked by mutual love and obedience to the truth.

Gospel (Luke 24:13-35)

Two disillusioned disciples leave Jerusalem after the discovery of the empty tomb and are joined by a stranger who shows them that the entire Old Testament predicted both Messiah’s death and resurrection. He vanishes after they recognize that it is Jesus.

 

CONNECTION SUGGESTIONS

  • The bodily resurrection of Jesus marks the critical moment in God’s plan
  • The resurrection of Jesus provides the entrance to new life for all who believe
  • The resurrection of Jesus marks the partial eruption of God’s future into our present existence
  • The resurrection of Jesus provides hope and meaning in the midst of this life

SCRIPTURE SENTENCE (BAS, Canada)

Lord Jesus, open to us the scriptures; make our hearts burn within us while you speak. See Luke 24.32

COLLECT OF THE DAY (BAS, Canada)

O God,
your Son made himself known to his disciples
in the breaking of bread.
Open the eyes of our faith,
that we may see him in his redeeming work,
who is alive and reigns with you and the Holy Spirit, one God, now and for ever. AMEN

Second Sunday of Easter, April 19, 2020

Please see How to Use Lection Connection

Full lections can be read here.

 

Based on the Readings as Set

First Reading (Acts 2:14a, 22-32)

Peter reminds those gathered in Jerusalem that they knew of the attesting miracles that Jesus had performed but handed him over to death anyway. However, God raised him, freeing him from death itself just as David had foreseen. Jesus’ disciples are all witnesses to this fact.

Psalm (16)

In today’s Psalm, David affirms his total commitment to the Lord and rejoices in the benefits of having done so. These even extend to victory over the power of the grave.

Second Reading (1 Peter 1:3-9)

Peter exults in how the resurrection of Jesus absolutely has secured the believers’ inheritance beyond this life. Even though we cannot see him, this fact is a source of deep joy, even in times of trial that severely test our faith.

Gospel (John 20:19-31)

On Easter evening Jesus appears to his disciples and breathes the Holy Spirit on them, sending them into the world to continue his mission. A week later, he convinces a doubting Thomas and blesses those who believe without actually seeing for themselves.

 

CONNECTION SUGGESTIONS

  • The bodily resurrection of Jesus is well attested by the personal witness of those who encountered him in risen form
  • The mission of the Church arises out of the bodily resurrection of Jesus and the salvation he has accomplished
  • The resurrection of Jesus is proof that God provides victory over death itself
  • The resurrection of Jesus makes all the difference to our faith

SCRIPTURE SENTENCE (BAS, Canada)

Have you believed, Thomas, because you have seen me? Blessed are those who have not seen and yet believe. John 20.29

COLLECT OF THE DAY (BAS, Canada)

Almighty and eternal God,
the strength of those who believe
and the hope of those who doubt,
may we, who have not seen, have faith
and receive the fullness of Christ’s blessing,
who is alive and reigns with you and the Holy Spirit, one God, now and for ever. AMEN

 

Resurrection of the Lord (Easter), April 12, 2020, Year A

Please see How to Use Lection Connection.

Full lections can be read here.

 

Based on the Readings as Set, and Including Alternates

First Reading (Acts 10: 34-43)

Peter tells Cornelius the Roman centurion that God accepts all who fear him, regardless of nationality, and then informs him about Jesus. His death and resurrection reveal him as the universal Lord and judge of all. and everyone who believes in him receives salvation.

OR

Alternate First Reading (Jeremiah 31:1-6)

Jeremiah forecasts a great Day ahead for the destroyed and scattered tribes of Israel, a Day in which they shall be joyfully gathered together in the fruitful Land. This return to life is a result of the Lord’s everlasting love for his people and will stimulate fervent worship in Zion.

Psalm (118:1-2, 14-24)

The Psalmist has experienced the Lord’s punishment and then, in answer to prayer, a last-minute rescue from death. The gates of righteousness are now thrown open and the rejected stone has now become the cornerstone. It is the day of the Lord’s salvation.

Second Reading (Colossians 3:1-4)

St. Paul exhorts the Colossians, on the basis of their incorporation into the risen Christ, to set their minds on things above. They have already died to earthly things and will share in his glory when he comes again.

OR

Alternate Second Reading (Acts 10:34-43)

Peter tells Cornelius the Roman centurion that God accepts all who fear him, regardless of nationality, and then informs him about Jesus. His death and resurrection reveal him as the universal Lord and judge of all. and everyone who believes in him receives salvation.

Gospel (John 20:1-18)

Mary Magdalene discovers the empty tomb and runs to tell Peter and the other disciple who run to see for themselves. Mary encounters the risen Lord and recognizes him when he calls her name. Told to tell the others that he will soon ascend, she does so.

OR

Alternate Gospel (Matthew 28:1-10)

Mary Magdalene and the other Mary go to Jesus’ tomb early on the first day of the week. There an angel informs them that Jesus is risen and bids them tell the disciples to go to Galilee to meet him. Jesus himself then appears, calming their fear and sending them on their mission.

 

CONNECTION SUGGESTIONS

  • The resurrection of Jesus has implications for all humanity as Lord of all
  • The resurrection of Jesus is a turning point in history itself
  • The resurrection of Jesus turns everything upside down.
  • The resurrection of Jesus opens the gate of life to all who would believe
  • The resurrection of Jesus and its reality is the foundation of Christian faith
  • The resurrection of Jesus is the beginning of the new creation

SCRIPTURE SENTENCE (BAS, Canada)

Christ our Passover has been sacrificed for us; therefore let us keep the feast. 1 Corinthians 5.7–8

COLLECT OF THE DAY (BAS, Canada)

Lord of life and power,
through the mighty resurrection of your Son,
you have overcome the old order of sin and death and have made all things new in him.
May we, being dead to sin
and alive to you in Jesus Christ,
reign with him in glory,
who with you and the Holy Spirit is alive,
one God, now and for ever. AMEN

Good Friday, April 10, 2020, Year A

Please see How to Use Lection Connection

Full lections can be read here.

 

Based on the Readings as Set

First Reading (Isaiah 52:13-53:12)

Isaiah tells of the coming Servant of the Lord who will undergo humiliation, rejection and great injustice. Like a sacrificial lamb he will silently bear the sins of many and make them whole. Assigned to the grave, in the end he will be vindicated and exalted in triumph.

Psalm (22)

Encircled by enemies like raging beasts, the Psalmist despairs in God’s seeming absence. Melting with fear as lots are cast for his clothes, he still trusts that the Lord will deliver him so mightily that the nations, the dead, and posterity itself will come to serve him.

Second Reading (Hebrews 10:16-25)

The writer of Hebrews describes Jesus as both the priest and sacrificial victim who made a way for us to come to God with clean hearts. As a result, we should continue to meet together in mutual encouragement towards love and good deeds.

Gospel (John 18:1-19:42)

Quoting both Jesus himself and Scripture, John stresses how God is in control of Jesus’ trials and crucifixion. Pilate, knowing Jesus is innocent, gives in to the raging crowd and he is crucified. Soldiers cast lots for his tunic while Jesus gives up his life and is buried.

 

CONNECTION SUGGESTIONS

  • Suffering and troubles do not signify the absence of God
  • As high priest Jesus offers himself, both priest and victim.
  • The profound and mysterious love of God for us sinners
  • The cost of our salvation to God and his Son
  • Conforming to God’s will comes with a cost
  • All we like sheep have gone astray

SCRIPTURE SENTENCE (BAS, Canada)

Christ became obedient unto death, even death on a cross. Therefore God has highly exalted him and bestowed on him the name which is above every name. Philippians 2.8–9

COLLECT OF THE DAY (BAS, Canada)

Almighty God,
look graciously, we pray, on this your family,
for whom our Lord Jesus Christ
was willing to be betrayed
and given into the hands of sinners,
and to suffer death upon the cross;
who now lives and reigns with you
and the Holy Spirit,
one God, for ever and ever. AMEN

 

Based on the Alternate Second Reading

First Reading (Isaiah 52:13-53:12)

Isaiah tells of the coming Servant of the Lord who will undergo humiliation, rejection and great injustice. Like a sacrificial lamb he will silently bear the sins of many and make them whole. Assigned to the grave, in the end he will be vindicated and exalted in triumph.

Psalm (22)

Encircled by enemies like raging beasts, the Psalmist despairs in God’s seeming absence. Melting with fear as lots are cast for his clothes, he still trusts that the Lord will deliver him so mightily that the nations, the dead, and posterity itself will come to serve him.

Second Reading (Hebrews 4:14-16; 5:7-9)

The writer of Hebrews exults in our having such an approachable and sympathetic high priest as Jesus, tested in every way but without sinning. Facing death, he begged God for deliverance but, in the end, bowed to his will and became the source of eternal salvation.

Gospel (John 18:1-19:42)

Quoting both Jesus himself and Scripture, John stresses how God is in control of Jesus’ trials and crucifixion. Pilate, knowing Jesus innocent, gives in to the raging crowd and he is crucified. Soldiers cast lots for his tunic while Jesus gives up his life and is buried.

 

CONNECTION SUGGESTIONS

  • Suffering and troubles do not signify the absence of God
  • The profound and mysterious love of God for us sinners
  • The cost of our salvation to God and his Son
  • Conforming to God’s will comes with a cost
  • All we like sheep have gone astray
  • The humanity of Christ is essential to our salvation

SCRIPTURE SENTENCE (BAS, Canada)

Christ became obedient unto death, even death on a cross. Therefore God has highly exalted him and bestowed on him the name which is above every name. Philippians 2.8–9

COLLECT OF THE DAY (BAS, Canada)

Almighty God,
look graciously, we pray, on this your family,
for whom our Lord Jesus Christ
was willing to be betrayed
and given into the hands of sinners,
and to suffer death upon the cross;
who now lives and reigns with you
and the Holy Spirit,
one God, for ever and ever. AMEN

Maundy Thursday, April 9, 2020, Year A

Please see How to Use Lection Connection

Full lections can be read here.

 

Based on the Readings as Set

First Reading (Exodus 12:1-4, [5-10], 11-14)

The Lord announces the last of the plagues against Egypt. He will go through the land destroying all first-born males. The Israelites are to eat a pure lamb, putting its blood on their door to ensure that they are passed over. The event is to be celebrated annually.

Psalm (116: 1-2, 12-19)

Knowing his prayers have been heard, the grateful Psalmist realizes that the best response is to orient his entire life toward the Lord, especially in giving thanks, fulfilling his vows and lifting up the cup of salvation.

Second Reading (1 Corinthians 11:23-26)

St. Paul reminds the Corinthians that it was Jesus himself who instituted the Lord’s Supper. It is to be repeated in remembrance of his death on their behalf until he comes again.

Gospel (John 13:1-17, 31b-35)

As Passover approaches Jesus realizes that his hour to die has now come. Although returning to his Father, he will be leaving behind his beloved disciples. He washes their feet, impressing upon them that loving one another will mark them as his disciples.

 

CONNECTION SUGGESTIONS

  • Passover, Jesus’s crucifixion, and the Lord’s Supper share profound connections
  • The wages of sin is death
  • Jesus fulfills not only the prophetic traditions of Israel but also its very institutions and history
  • God provides a substitute
  • Remembrance is critical to the exercise of faith

SCRIPTURE SENTENCE (BAS, Canada)

A new commandment I give to you, that you love one another as I have loved you. John 13.34

COLLECT OF THE DAY (BAS, Canada)

O God,
your Son Jesus Christ
has left to us this meal of bread and wine
in which we share his body and his blood.
May we who celebrate this sign of his great love show in our lives the fruits of his redemption; through Jesus Christ our Lord,
who lives and reigns with you and the Holy Spirit, one God, now and for ever. AMEN