Please see How to Use Lection Connection
Full lections can be read here.
Based on the Readings as Set
First Reading (Jeremiah 29:1, 4-7)
Jeremiah’s letter to the exiles in Babylon encourages them to settle down and prosper. They are to build houses, take wives and have families as normal. Even more, they are actually to seek the city’s welfare because if it is blessed, they will be blessed as well.
Psalm (66:1-12)
The Psalmist calls the whole earth to acknowledge and worship God because of his greatness as seen in all his works. He calls special attention to his deliverance of the Israelite nation from death in Egypt and his provision of new life in the land of promise.
Second Reading (2 Timothy 2:8-15)
Paul, himself suffering in captivity but carrying on his ministry as normal, urges Timothy to join in his identification with the suffering of Jesus in the firm expectation of sharing in his resurrection. Timothy is to encourage his flock plainly to do the same.
Gospel (Luke 17:11-19)
Continuing on his final journey to Jerusalem, Jesus encounters ten lepers begging him to have mercy on them. He heals them after he simply tells them to have the priests check their condition. Only the single “foreigner” among them bothers to return and praise God.
CONNECTION SUGGESTIONS
- God is at work in the routines of life
- Jesus specializes in bringing life out of death
- Praise is the proper response to the work of God
- Brighten the corner where you are
Based on the Alternative Readings
First Reading (2 Kings 5:1-3, 7-15c)
A young Israelite, seeking the welfare of her captor Naaman, tells him about the prophet Elisha back home who could cure his leprosy. Naaman is cured once he obeys the straightforward word of the prophet and comes to believe in Israel’s God.
Psalm (111)
The Psalmist calls for thanks to be given to the Lord for his wonderful works. Those works, especially redeeming Israel and giving the Law, have gained him widespread fame. To have faith in the Lord is to be on the path of wisdom.
Second Reading (2 Timothy 12:8-15)
Paul, himself suffering in captivity but carrying on his ministry as normal, urges Timothy to join in his identification with the suffering of Jesus in the firm expectation of sharing in his resurrection. Timothy is to encourage his flock plainly to do the same.
Gospel (Luke 17:11-19)
Continuing on his final journey to Jerusalem, Jesus encounters ten lepers begging him to have mercy on them. He heals them after he simply tells them to have the priests check their condition. Only the single “foreigner” among them bothers to return and praise God.
CONNECTION SUGGESTIONS
- It is not a wise thing to complicate the straightforward word of God
- Jesus specializes in bringing life out of death
- Praise is the proper response to the work of God
- Brighten the corner where you are