Readings for April13,2017 Year A Maundy Thursday

Please see How to Use Lection Connection

 

First Reading and Psalm

  • Exodus 12:1-4, (5-10), 11-14
  • Psalm 116:1-2; 12-19

Second Reading

  • I Corinthians 11:23-26

Gospel

  • John 13:1-17, 31b-35

Full lections can be read here.

Based on the Full Readings as Set

YAHWEH informs Moses and Aaron that he is finally going to deliver the Israelites from Egypt by means of a last terrible plague. He instructs each family to slaughter and eat an unblemished lamb, putting its blood around the door of their home to ensure that they will be passed over when all the other first-born males in Egypt are destroyed. From now on this month is to be the first month of their year and they are to repeat this procedure forever on its fourteenth day to celebrate and remember their deliverance. Knowing his prayers have been heard, the Psalmist realizes that the best response is to orient his entire life toward YAHWEH, especially in giving thanks, paying his vows and lifting up the cup of salvation. 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. As Passover approaches Jesus realizes that his hour to die has now come. Although he will be returning to his Father, he will be leaving behind his beloved disciples. He washes their feet at supper, impressing upon them the need to serve one another in love, thereby demonstrating to everyone that they are indeed his disciples.

As Introductions and/or Bulletin Use

Old Testament

YAHWEH informs Moses and Aaron that he is finally going to deliver the Israelites from Egypt by means of a last terrible plague. He instructs each family to slaughter and eat an unblemished lamb, putting its blood around the door of their home to ensure that they will be passed over when all the other first-born males in Egypt are destroyed. From now on this month is to be the first month of their year and they are to repeat this procedure forever on its fourteenth day to celebrate and remember their deliverance.

Psalm

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

New Testament

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

As Passover approaches Jesus realizes that his hour to die has now come. Although he will be returning to his Father, he will be leaving behind his beloved disciples. He washes their feet at supper, impressing upon them the need to serve one another in love, thereby demonstrating to everyone that they are indeed his disciples.