Lection Connection for US Thanksgiving 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 (2 Samuel 23:1-7)
David’s last words acknowledge that all of his greatness as a just ruler is due to the Lord. Marvelling that the Lord has made an everlasting covenant with him, he is assured of divine help to further his goals, unlike the godless who will inevitably come to naught.
Psalm (132:1-12, [13-18])
A prayer for the son of David, this Psalm remembers David’s desire to build a house for God and God’s promise to build a house for David, that is, a descendant of his on Israel’s throne forever. The Lord lives in Zion, his chosen city, blessing it with salvation and shaming its enemies.
Second Reading (Revelation 1:4b-8)
Writing to the seven churches of Asia, John blesses them in the name of Christ, the Alpha and Omega, who rules over all earthly kings. He loves us, and his blood has freed us from our sins, making us a kingdom of priests. Every eye shall see him when he comes to judge the earth.
Gospel (John 18:33-37)
Pilate asks Jesus if he is the king of the Jews and Jesus goes on to explain that he is a king but his kingdom is not of this world. If it was, his followers would be fighting to free him. As it is, he has come to testify to the truth and everyone who belongs to the truth will listen to him.
CONNECTION SUGGESTIONS
- The eternal rule of Christ fulfills God’s covenant promise to David
- The reign of Christ is continuous with earthly rule but transcends it as well
- Earthly rulers are answerable to Christ and subject to his Judgment
- The king of all the earth has subjected himself to it, in order to save it
Based on the Alternative Readings
First Reading (Daniel 7:9-10, 13-14)
In his vision, Daniel sees the Ancient of Days amidst myriads of attendants ascending his fiery throne to sit in judgment. He also sees a human figure like a “Son of Man” coming on the clouds to be given dominion over all peoples and nations in a kingship that endures forever.
Psalm (93)
The Psalmist depicts the Lord as King, with spectacular robes and great strength. He has made the world secure and established his throne. The waters lift their voice to one even mightier than themselves. His testimonies are sure and his house is beautified with holiness forever.
Second Reading (Revelation 1:4b-8)
Writing to the seven churches of Asia, John blesses them in the name of Christ, the Alpha and Omega, who rules over all earthly kings. He loves us, and his blood has freed us from our sins, making us a kingdom of priests. Every eye shall see him when he comes to judge the earth.
Gospel (John 18:33-37)
Pilate asks Jesus if he is the king of the Jews and Jesus goes on to explain that he is a king but his kingdom is not of this world. If it was, his followers would be fighting to free him. As it is, he has come to testify to the truth and everyone who belongs to the truth will listen to him.
CONNECTION SUGGESTIONS
- The reign of Christ is continuous with earthly rule but transcends it as well
- Earthly rulers are answerable to Christ and subject to his Judgment
- The king of all the earth has subjected himself to it, in order to save it
- The Christian can rest secure in the reign of Christ over all other powers