Posted on

Sixth Sunday after Pentecost, July 12, 2020

Please see How to Use Lection Connection.

Full lections can be read here.

 

Based on the Readings as Set

First Reading (Genesis 25:19-34)

Isaac’s wife Rebekah proves to be barren but, after he prays, she soon conceives twin boys. The Lord informs her that, surprisingly, the older will come to serve the younger. Years later, the elder, Esau, offhandedly sells his birthright to his twin, Jacob.

Psalm (Psalm 119:105-112)

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

Second Reading (Romans 8:1-11)

Paul contrasts the way of Law with the way of the Spirit of Christ. Jesus has fulfilled the demands of the Law 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 (Matthew 13:1-9, 18-23)

Jesus uses the parable of the sower to demonstrate the extreme fruitfulness of the word of the kingdom for those who understand. Those who do not, or who wilt under persecution, or allow the cares of the world and its wealth to distract them, will wither.

 

CONNECTION SUGGESTIONS

  • Following the Lord involves a struggle
  • The Word and Ways of God need to be embraced with care and followed with diligence
  • The Word of the Lord endures forever
  • The Word of the Lord will accomplish what it sets out to do, one way or the other

SCRIPTURE SENTENCE (BAS, Canada)

The word is very near you; it is in your mouth and in your heart, so that you can do it. Deuteronomy 30.14

COLLECT OF THE DAY (BAS, Canada)

Almighty God,
you have made us for yourself,
and our hearts are restless
until they find their rest in you.
May we find peace in your service,
and in the world to come, see you face to face; through Jesus Christ our Lord,
who lives and reigns with you and the Holy Spirit, one God, now and for ever.  AMEN

 

Based on the Alternate Readings

First Reading (Isaiah 55:10-13)

Isaiah affirms that the word of the Lord is as fruitful as rain and snow, always accomplishing its purpose. He tells Israel that it will come back from exile in great joy and peace. The event will be an everlasting memorial, with creation itself transformed.

Psalm (65:[1-8], 9-13)

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, which benefits from his watering of the earth to produce fruit in abundance.

Second Reading (Romans 8:1-11)

Paul contrasts the way of Law with the way of the Spirit of Christ. Jesus has fulfilled the demands of the Law 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 (Matthew 13:1-9, 18-23)

Jesus uses the parable of the sower to demonstrate the extreme fruitfulness of the word of the kingdom for those who understand. Those who do not, or who wilt under persecution, or allow the cares of the world and its wealth to distract them, will wither.

 

CONNECTION SUGGESTIONS

  • Following the Lord involves a struggle
  • The Word and Ways of God need to be embraced with care and followed with diligence
  • The Word of the Lord endures forever
  • The Word of the Lord will accomplish what it sets out to do, one way or the other
  • God reaches out to all, but all do not reach out to God

SCRIPTURE SENTENCE (BAS, Canada)

The word is very near you; it is in your mouth and in your heart, so that you can do it. Deuteronomy 30.14

COLLECT OF THE DAY (BAS, Canada)

Almighty God,
you have made us for yourself,
and our hearts are restless
until they find their rest in you.
May we find peace in your service,
and in the world to come, see you face to face; through Jesus Christ our Lord,
who lives and reigns with you and the Holy Spirit, one God, now and for ever.  AMEN

Posted on

Fourth Sunday after Pentecost, June 28, 2020

Please see How to Use Lection Connection.

Full lections can be read here.

 

Based on the Readings as Set

First Reading (Genesis 22:1-14)

After promising Abraham that he would have many descendants through Isaac, God commands the patriarch to sacrifice his son. At the last moment an angel intervenes and a ram is provided as a substitute. Abraham is commended for his difficult obedience.

Psalm (13)

The Psalmist’s world has collapsed around him in pain, sorrow and humiliation. Nevertheless, he trusts in the steadfast love of the Lord and looks forward to rejoicing at his salvation by a gracious God.

Second Reading (Romans 6:12-23)

Paul clarifies that we are not free to sin simply because we are no longer under the law. Having died to sin and to the death it brings, we have received the gift of eternal life through Jesus Christ. In response, our freedom is guided by an obedience from within.

Gospel (Matthew 10:40-42)

Having warned his disciples that following him would engender fierce opposition, Jesus also assures them of welcome and assistance from others. Such persons would actually be welcoming him and would not go unrewarded even for minor acts of kindness.

 

CONNECTION SUGGESTIONS

  • The promises of God are sure
  • Even when things are going badly, God is at work making a way
  • Present circumstances do not dictate the final end of things
  • Following the Lord is not an easy path
  • The gift of a relationship with God in Christ brings with it both struggle and victory

SCRIPTURE SENTENCE (BAS, Canada)

You are a chosen race, a royal priesthood, a holy nation, that you may declare the wonderful deeds of him who called you out of darkness into his marvellous light.
1 Peter 2.9

COLLECT OF THE DAY (BAS, Canada)

Almighty God,
you have taught us through your Son
that love fulfils the law.
May we love you with all our heart,
all our soul, all our mind, and all our strength, and may we love our neighbour as ourselves; through Jesus Christ our Lord,
who lives and reigns with you and the Holy Spirit, one God, now and for ever. AMEN

 

Based on the Alternate Readings

First Reading (Jeremiah 28:5-9)

Jeremiah publicly confronts a false prophet who had proclaimed that peace was coming soon. Genuine prophets are usually called to announce impending disaster when there is widespread disobedience. Predicting peace in such times is not likely inspired by God.

Psalm (Psalm 89:1-4, 15-18)

The Psalmist is confident of the Lord’s steadfast love because of the covenant he made with David establishing his throne forever. The people of Israel are rightly happy in their privileged position, exulting in the name of the Lord, from whom all blessings come.

Second Reading (Romans 6:12-23)

Paul clarifies that we are not free to sin simply because we are no longer under the law. Having died to sin and to the death it brings, we have received the gift of eternal life through Jesus Christ. In response, our freedom is guided by an obedience from within.

Gospel (Matthew 10:40-42)

Having warned his disciples that following him would engender fierce opposition, Jesus also assures them of welcome and assistance from others. Such persons would actually be welcoming him and would not go unrewarded even for minor acts of kindness.

 

CONNECTION SUGGESTIONS

  • The promises of God are sure
  • Even when things are going badly, God is at work making a way
  • Following the Lord is not an easy path
  • The gift of a relationship with God in Christ brings with it both struggle and victory
  • The faithful can exult in having God’s eye upon them in all circumstances

SCRIPTURE SENTENCE (BAS, Canada)

You are a chosen race, a royal priesthood, a holy nation, that you may declare the wonderful deeds of him who called you out of darkness into his marvellous light.
1 Peter 2.9

COLLECT OF THE DAY (BAS, Canada)

Almighty God,
you have taught us through your Son
that love fulfils the law.
May we love you with all our heart,
all our soul, all our mind, and all our strength, and may we love our neighbour as ourselves; through Jesus Christ our Lord,
who lives and reigns with you and the Holy Spirit, one God, now and for ever. AMEN

Posted on

Third Sunday after Pentecost, June 21, 2020

Please see How to Use Lection Connection.

Full lections can be read here.

 

Based on the Readings as Set

First Reading (Genesis 21:8-21)

After Isaac the son of promise is born, Sarah wants Abraham to get rid of Hagar and her son Ishmael, Isaac’s half-brother. He agrees only after God assures him that they would prosper. God then saves them from certain death after hearing their cries in the desert.

Psalm (Psalm 86:1-10, 16-17)

In a time of great need the Psalmist pleads with the Lord for deliverance, confident of the steadfast love of the one true God for all those who cry out to him, even if they are of humble origin.

Second Reading (Romans 6:1b-11)

Paul points out the implications of being united with Christ through baptism into his death and resurrection: our old self dies and we are raised to new life. Now alive to God and dead to sin, we are enabled to walk in newness of life.

Gospel (Matthew 10:24-39)

Jesus warns that his followers will come under persecution for making his message known. They are not to fear, as his Father cares for even the tiniest bird that falls. Obeying Jesus is costly, even cutting across family lines, but brings life beyond death.

 

CONNECTION SUGGESTIONS

  • The Lord provides for those participating in his mission
  • The Lord is ever attentive to the cries of his faithful people
  • Walking in obedient witness does bring its difficulties but God is with us
  • Being united with Christ commits us to a life patterned on his
  • Commitment to Jesus takes precedence over all other commitments, even family ones

SCRIPTURE SENTENCE (BAS, Canada)

The Spirit of truth will bear witness to me, says the Lord; and you also are witnesses. John 15.26, 27

COLLECT OF THE DAY (BAS, Canada)

O God our defender,
storms rage about us and cause us to be afraid. Rescue your people from despair,
deliver your sons and daughters from fear,
and preserve us all from unbelief;
through your Son, Jesus Christ our Lord,
who lives and reigns with you and the Holy Spirit, one God, now and ever. AMEN

 

Based on the Alternate Readings

First Reading (Jeremiah 20:7-13)

Jeremiah complains to the Lord because he has been persecuted by his fellow Israelites for delivering an unwelcome divine word. As a prophet, Jeremiah realizes he has had no choice and comes to realize that the Lord is with him and will prevail.

Psalm (69:7-10 [11-15], 16-18)

The Psalmist recounts the negative things that have happened to him because of his faithfulness to the Lord, including the estrangement of his family. At the same time, he is prayerfully trusting in the steadfast love of the Lord for deliverance.

Second Reading (Romans 6:1b-11)

Paul points out the implications of being united with Christ through baptism into his death and resurrection: our old self dies and we are raised to new life. Now alive to God and dead to sin, we are enabled to walk in newness of life.

Gospel (Matthew 10:24-39)

Jesus warns that his followers will come under persecution for making his message known. They are not to fear, as his Father cares for even the tiniest bird that falls. Obeying Jesus is costly, even cutting across family lines, but brings life beyond death.

 

CONNECTION SUGGESTIONS

  • The Lord provides for those participating in his mission
  • The Lord is ever attentive to the cries of his faithful people
  • Walking in obedient witness does bring its difficulties but God is with us
  • Being united with Christ commits us to a life patterned upon his
  • Commitment to Jesus takes precedence over all other commitments, even family ones

SCRIPTURE SENTENCE (BAS, Canada)

The Spirit of truth will bear witness to me, says the Lord; and you also are witnesses. John 15.26, 27

COLLECT OF THE DAY (BAS, Canada)

O God our defender,
storms rage about us and cause us to be afraid. Rescue your people from despair,
deliver your sons and daughters from fear,
and preserve us all from unbelief;
through your Son, Jesus Christ our Lord,
who lives and reigns with you and the Holy Spirit, one God, now and ever. AMEN

Posted on

Second Sunday after Pentecost, June 14, 2020

Please see How to Use Lection Connection.

Full lections can be read here.

 

Based on the Readings as Set

First Reading (Genesis 18:1-15 [21:1-7])

The Lord appears to Abraham in the form of three strangers who state that his wife Sarah will bear a son. The elderly and barren Sarah laughs at the idea [but later has a son, Isaac, or, “laughter”, who she knows comes from the Lord].

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

The Psalmist rejoices in the Lord who has heard his cry and blessed him, setting him free and saving him. Although he cannot possibly repay the debt he will fulfil his vows in the presence of God’s people.

Second Reading (Romans 5:1-8)

Having obtained peace with God through faith in Christ, who died for us while we were still sinners, we now have hope of sharing in his glory. By producing character, our sufferings add to this hope and, with the Spirit, God’s love is poured into our hearts.

Gospel (Matthew 9:35-10:8 [9-23])

Overwhelmed by the needs of so many, Jesus sends out his disciples to extend his mission. [They are to be totally dependent on others for their needs. Although sheep among wolves, the Spirit will enable them to stand up to opposing authorities.]

 

CONNECTION SUGGESTIONS

  • The Lord will provide what we truly need to fulfill our calling
  • God will answer our prayers in his way and in his time, but he will answer them
  • God is present with us in various ways
  • The Lord partners with the faithful in the fulfilment of his plans
  • The Lord gives us a lot more than we could ever deserve

SCRIPTURE SENTENCE (BAS, Canada)

The kingdom of God is at hand; repent, and believe in the gospel. Mark 1.15

COLLECT OF THE DAY (BAS, Canada)

Almighty God,
without you we are not able to please you. Mercifully grant that your Holy Spirit
may in all things direct and rule our hearts;
through Jesus Christ our Lord,
who is alive and reigns with you and the Holy Spirit, one God, now and for ever. AMEN

 

Based on the Alternate Readings

First Reading (Exodus 19:2-8a)

The Lord tells Moses to remind the people of how he has carried them out of bondage in Egypt on eagles’ wings. In response they are to keep his covenant and be a priestly kingdom, his treasured possession out of all the nations. As one, they promise to obey.

Psalm (Psalm 100)

The Psalmist calls upon the whole earth to rejoice in worshipping the Lord who has made us and called us to be his people. He is altogether good and faithfull, his love endures forever.

Second Reading (Romans 5:1-8)

Having obtained peace with God through faith in Christ, who died for us while we were still sinners, we now have hope of sharing in his glory. By producing character, our sufferings add to this hope and, with the Spirit, God’s love is poured into our hearts.

Gospel (Matthew 9:35-10:8 [9-23])

Overwhelmed by the needs of so many, Jesus sends out his disciples to extend his mission. [They are to be totally dependent on others for their needs. Although sheep among wolves, the Spirit will enable them to stand up to opposing authorities.]

 

CONNECTION SUGGESTIONS

  • The Lord will provide what we truly need to fulfill our calling
  • God is present with us in various ways
  • The Lord partners with the faithful in the fulfilment of his plans
  • The Lord gives us a lot more than we could ever deserve
  • It is the Lord who saves us, we are unable to save ourselves
  • In responding to God’s great salvation, we are to serve him with all our hearts

SCRIPTURE SENTENCE (BAS, Canada)

The kingdom of God is at hand; repent, and believe in the gospel. Mark 1.15

COLLECT OF THE DAY (BAS, Canada)

Almighty God,
without you we are not able to please you. Mercifully grant that your Holy Spirit
may in all things direct and rule our hearts;
through Jesus Christ our Lord,
who is alive and reigns with you and the Holy Spirit, one God, now and for ever. AMEN

Posted on

Trinity Sunday, June 7, 2020

Please see How to Use Lection Connection.

Full lections can be read here.

 

Based on the Readings as Set

First Reading (Genesis 1:1-2:4a)

God creates the cosmos as his Spirit sweeps across the chaos, transforming it into order, step by step. God’s word brings everything into existence, first the natural environment, then its inhabitants and, finally, humankind, made in God’s image as ruler over all for its flourishing.

Psalm (8)

The Psalmist emphasizes that, because of his great and awesome creation, the Lord’s name is majestic over the entire earth. But humankind is also exalted, having been given rule over that creation as God’s regent and crowned with glory and honor.

Second Reading (2 Corinthians 13:11-13)

St. Paul closes his second letter to the Corinthians with a call to put things in order by means of peace, unity and love. He then commends them to the grace of the Lord Jesus Christ, the love of God and the fellowship of the Holy Spirit.

Gospel (Matthew 28:16-20)

Matthew’s Gospel ends with the risen Jesus’ claim to ultimate authority as he commissions his followers to go make disciples of all nations, baptizing them in the name of the Father, the Son and the Holy Spirit. Jesus assures them that he will be with them until the end of the age.

 

CONNECTION SUGGESTIONS

  • The special place of humanity as God’s agent and the object of his attention and mission
  • God extends his work through his Spirit and humankind, his special creation
  • The work of creation and new creation is wondrous indeed
  • The Father, the Son and the Holy Spirit cooperate in the work of creation and redemption
  • The Holy Spirit does not work independently of the Father and the Son
  • God’s claim on humanity is universal
  • The divine commission of humankind to rule over creation for its flourishing is related to the extension of the Gospel into the whole earth through the work of the Church

SENTENCE (BAS, Canada)

Holy, holy, holy is the Lord of hosts; the whole earth is full of his glory. Isaiah 6.3

COLLECT OF THE DAY (BAS, Canada)

Father, we praise you:
through your Word and Holy Spirit you created all things. You reveal your salvation in all the world
by sending to us Jesus Christ, the Word made flesh. Through your Holy Spirit
you give us a share in your life and love.
Fill us with the vision of your glory,
that we may always serve and praise you,
Father, Son, and Holy Spirit,
one God, for ever and ever. AMEN

Posted on

Day of Pentecost, May 31, 2020

Please see How to Use Lection Connection.

Full lections can be read here.

 

Based on the Readings as Set

First Reading (Acts 2:1-21)

On the Day of Pentecost Jesus’ followers are filled with the Holy Spirit as he promised. Amidst the sound of a strong wind, tongues of fire appear upon them. They proclaim God’s power in the languages of many amazed pilgrims and Peter explains that the age to come has arrived.

Psalm (104:24-34, 35b)

The Psalmist celebrates the wisdom of the Lord in the creation and sustaining of all things, both animate and inanimate. He accomplishes this by means of his Spirit and the Psalmist responds with heartfelt praise.

Second Reading (1 Corinthians 12:3b-13)

Paul emphasizes that, while there is a wide variety of spiritual gifts, services, and activities, they all come from the one Lord and are for the common good. Just as our bodies are made up of very different parts, so the Spirit orders his gifts into a unified whole.

Gospel (John 20:19-23)

John relates the initial post-resurrection appearance of Jesus on Easter evening. The Lord first bestows peace upon his disciples and then shows them his hands and side. Finally, he breathes the Holy Spirit upon them and sends them out to continue his work of the forgiveness of sins.

 

CONNECTION SUGGESTIONS

  • The coming of the Holy Spirit marks the beginning of a (new) creation, ordering everything aright.
  • The Holy Spirit is given in order to enable and extend the Church’s witness to the Christ-event
  • The Holy Spirit is Christ-with-us and in us
  • The Holy Spirit continues the mission of the ascended Jesus

SCRIPTURE SENTENCE (BAS, Canada)

Come, Holy Spirit, fill the hearts of your faithful; and kindle in us the fire of your love.

COLLECT OF THE DAY (BAS, Canada)

Almighty and everliving God,
who fulfilled the promises of Easter
by sending us your Holy Spirit
and opening to every race and nation
the way of life eternal,
keep us in the unity of your Spirit,
that every tongue may tell of your glory;
through Jesus Christ our Lord,
who lives and reigns with you and the Holy Spirit, one God, now and for ever. AMEN

 

Based on the Alternate Readings

First Reading (Numbers 11:24-30)

To spread the burden of leadership, the Lord bestows some of the Spirit Moses had been given on seventy elders. Moses is criticized when two elders not present begin to prophesy as well. He responds by saying he wishes all of God’s people were given the Spirit.

Psalm (104:24-34, 35b)

The Psalmist celebrates the wisdom of the Lord in the creation and sustaining of all things, both animate and inanimate. He accomplishes this by means of his Spirit and the Psalmist responds with heartfelt praise.

Second Reading (Acts 2:1-21)

On the Day of Pentecost Jesus’ followers are filled with the Holy Spirit as he promised. Amidst the sound of a strong wind, tongues of fire appear upon them. They proclaim God’s power in the languages of many amazed pilgrims and Peter explains that the age to come has arrived.

Gospel (John 7:37-39)

Jesus attends the Feast of the Tabernacles which usually involved the pouring of pure water on the Temple altar. There he invites anyone who thirsts to come to him and have rivers of living water flow out of their heart. John says that Jesus is referring to the Holy Spirit in each believer.

 

CONNECTION SUGGESTIONS

  • The coming of the Holy Spirit marks the beginning of a (new) creation
  • The Holy Spirit is given in order to enable the Church’s witness to the Christ-event
  • The Holy Spirit continues the mission of the ascended Jesus
  • The Holy Spirit more than makes up for the physical absence of Jesus

SCRIPTURE SENTENCE (BAS, Canada)

Come, Holy Spirit, fill the hearts of your faithful; and kindle in us the fire of your love.

COLLECT OF THE DAY (BAS, Canada)

Almighty and everliving God,
who fulfilled the promises of Easter
by sending us your Holy Spirit
and opening to every race and nation
the way of life eternal,
keep us in the unity of your Spirit,
that every tongue may tell of your glory;
through Jesus Christ our Lord,
who lives and reigns with you and the Holy Spirit, one God, now and for ever. AMEN

 

Posted on

Seventh Sunday of Easter, May 24, 2020

Lection Connection for Ascension Day can be found here.

Please see How to Use Lection Connection.

Full lections can be read here.

 

Based on the Readings as Set

First Reading (Acts 1:6-14)

To his disciples’ question of when he will establish his kingdom, the risen Jesus says that the Holy Spirit will come upon them in power and they will be his witnesses the world over. He then ascends into a cloud, after which they devote themselves to prayer.

Psalm (68:1-10, 32-35)

The Psalmist calls for a joyful witness to the nations concerning the Lord, who reverses the fortunes of the needy and has always stood by Israel. He rides upon the clouds, filling the sky with his awesome power and giving strength to his people.

Second Reading (1 Peter 4:12-14; 5:6-11)

Encouraging Christians who are suffering because they have obeyed Christ, Peter declares this a test arising from the predictable hostility of the devil. Presently humbled, but blessed in having the Spirit, by grace they will finally overcome him and be exalted.

Gospel (John 17:1-11)

In his prayer near the end of his earthly life, Jesus portrays his becoming the source of eternal life as a work that has glorified his Father. Soon to leave his disciples behind in the world, he asks that they be preserved in the same unity he shares with the Father.

 

CONNECTION SUGGESTIONS

  • Jesus is always concerned for his disciples and provides what they need in order to carry on his mission to the nations
  • The power of God is active in the life and witness of Christians
  • Christians are to continue the mission of Jesus through the Holy Spirit
  • In spite of our misunderstandings, Christ is at work in us through his Spirit
  • Emmanuel: God is with us

SENTENCE (BAS, Canada)

I will not leave you desolate, says the Lord; I will come to you. John 14.18

COLLECT OF THE DAY (BAS, Canada)

Almighty God,
you have exalted your only Son Jesus Christ
with great triumph to your kingdom in heaven. Mercifully give us faith to know
that, as he promised,
he abides with us on earth to the end of time;
who is alive and reigns with you and the Holy Spirit, one God, now and for ever. AMEN

Posted on

Ascension Day, Year A, May 21, 2020

Lection Connection for the Sixth Sunday after Easter can be found here.

Please see How to Use Lection Connection.

Full lections can be read here.

 

Based on the Readings as Set

First Reading (Acts 1:1-11)

After his resurrection Jesus teaches his disciples about the kingdom of God for forty days. He tells them to wait for the baptism in the Holy Spirit to enable them to be witnesses even to the ends of the earth. As he rises into a cloud, he promises that he will return in the same way.

Psalm (47)

All peoples are called to joyful praise of the Lord because he is king over all the earth, having subdued it through his people Israel. He has gone up to his throne over all other powers with great acclaim and so the call goes for all the nations to honour him as their God as well.

OR

Alternate Psalm (93)

The Lord is the everlasting and universal king of creation, his creation. He is far more majestic than even the awesome thunder of the heavens or the crashing waves of the sea. His laws are sure and his house is holy.

Second Reading (Ephesians 1:15-23)

Having heard of the faith and love of the Ephesians, Paul gives thanks and prays that they will know the rich hope to which they are called. God will do this, whose power raised Jesus from the dead and seated him on high over all other authorities as the head of the church, his body.

Gospel (Luke 24:44-53)

In his last resurrection appearance Jesus shows his disciples how the Scriptures predicted his suffering and rising. Witnesses to this, they are to proclaim repentance and forgiveness in his name even to the ends of the earth. With that he blesses them and ascends into heaven.

 

CONNECTION SUGGESTIONS

  • The ascension of Jesus to the Father marks the end of his earthly ministry and the beginning of his ministry extended through the church
  • The ascension of Jesus reveals his true position as the authoritative Son of God
  • Jesus’ followers are to carry the gospel of his kingdom to all the earth and all its inhabitants
  • Jesus ascends to a place beside God as universal king over all the nations

SENTENCE (BAS, Canada)

Go and make disciples of all nations, says the Lord; I am with you always, to the close of the age. Matthew 28.19, 20

COLLECT OF THE DAY (BAS, Canada)

Almighty God,
your Son Jesus Christ ascended to the throne of heaven that he might rule over all things as Lord.
Keep the Church in the unity of the Spirit
and in the bond of his peace,
and bring the whole of creation
to worship at his feet,
who is alive and reigns with you and the Holy Spirit, one God, now and for ever. AMEN

Posted on

Sixth Sunday of Easter, May 17, 2020

Lection Connection for Ascension Day can be found here.

Please see How to Use Lection Connection.

Full lections can be read here.

 

Based on the Readings as Set

First Reading (Acts 17:22-31)

Paul invites Athenians to turn to the “unknown God” whose altar he found in their city. This God, he proclaims, is Creator and sustainer of all, not a mere human-made idol. He has chosen a man to judge the whole world and raised him from the dead to prove it.

Psalm (66:8-20)

The Psalmist calls upon the nations to bless the God who has tested, sustained and delivered Israel. Consider as well, he says, what the has done for me in his steadfast love! He has heard my cry because I have not walked in iniquity.

Second Reading (1 Peter 3:13-22)

In dealing with the question of suffering for doing good, St. Peter points to Jesus, the perfectly good one who suffered and died for our sins. His resurrection assures his place at God’s right hand and serves as the basis of the salvation we enter through baptism.

Gospel (John 14:15-21)

Jesus makes it clear that those who truly love him will keep his commandments. Even though he will soon be departing this life, he will give all who obey him the Spirit of truth. The Spirit will enable them to have an ongoing intimacy with him and the Father.

 

CONNECTION SUGGESTIONS

  • Those who claim to love God will seek to live by his laws
  • The evidence for God and his truth is there for those willing to see and believe
  • The resurrection of Jesus serves to authenticate his roles in the salvation of the world
  • Suffering and death find their ultimate answer in the resurrection of Jesus

SENTENCE (BAS, Canada)

If you love me, you will keep my word, and my Father will love you, and we will come to you. See John 14.23

COLLECT OF THE DAY (BAS, Canada)

Merciful God,
you have prepared for those who love you
riches beyond imagination.
Pour into our hearts such love toward you,
that we, loving you above all things,
may obtain your promises,
which exceed all that we can desire;
through Jesus Christ our Lord,
who is alive and reigns with you and the Holy Spirit, one God, now and for ever. AMEN

Posted on

Fifth Sunday of Easter, May 10, 2020

Please see How to Use Lection Connection.

Full lections can be read here.

 

Based on the Readings as Set

First Reading (Acts 7:55-60)

Stephen, about to become the first Christian martyr, sees Jesus in the heavens standing at the right hand of God and commits his spirit to him. Even as the stones fall cruelly upon him he finds refuge in the certainty of eternal life with the Resurrected One.

Psalm (31:1-5, 15-16)

In a time of desperate need, the Psalmist commits his spirit into the hand of the Lord, his redeemer and his fortress. He does so in the sure knowledge that the Lord is righteous, faithful and loving.

Second Reading (1 Peter 2:2-10)

Peter refers to Jesus as the keystone of the living temple made up of believers, living stones who offer up spiritual sacrifices to God through Christ. They who were once but aliens are now a chosen race, a royal priesthood and a holy nation.

Gospel (John 14:1-14)

Jesus promises his disciples that he will return and take them to be with him and the Father. He explains that he himself is the way and that he and the Father are one. In Jesus’ absence the disciples will be able to expand Jesus’ works, all to the Father’s glory.

 

CONNECTION SUGGESTIONS

  • The resurrected Jesus is the One we must depend upon
  • We can do the works of Jesus only in his name and power
  • God is our refuge
  • Jesus shares the divine characteristics of the Father
  • Our way to the Father is through the Son

SENTENCE (BAS, Canada)

I am the way, the truth, and the life, says the Lord; no one comes to the Father, but by me. John 14.6

COLLECT OF THE DAY (BAS, Canada)

Almighty God,
your Son Jesus Christ is the way, the truth, and the life. Give us grace to love one another
and walk in the way of his commandments,
who lives and reigns with you and the Holy Spirit,
one God, now and for ever. AMEN