Please see How to Use Lection Connection
First Reading and Psalm
- Micah 6:1-8
- Psalm 15
Second Reading
- 1 Corinthians 1:18-31
Gospel
- Matthew 5:1-12
Full lections can be read here.
Based on the Readings as Set
The prophet Micah, writing at a time when Judah had fallen into disobedience, pictures YAHWEH calling the mountains as witnesses to what he teaches his wayward people. Do they not remember his mighty salvation in bringing them up out of Egypt to the Promised Land against fierce opposition along the way? It is not more ritual sacrifice that he requires now, but rather that people humbly keep in step with him. The Psalmist points out that those who would dwell with YAHWEH must walk blamelessly, speaking and doing the truth no matter the cost. St. Paul wants to ensure that no one can boast that they have achieved their own salvation: it is the Lord alone who saves. The message of the cross contradicts the means by which human beings normally acquire spiritual truth. It is foolishness to the Greeks who seek wisdom and weakness to the Jews who seek powerful signs. Matthew recounts how Jesus, having ascended a mountain, teaches his people about the path that leads to God. The ensuing Beatitudes embody a life of meekness and humility that will draw opposition and even persecution by contradicting a wayward world.
As Introductions
Old Testament
The prophet Micah, writing at a time when Judah had fallen into disobedience, pictures YAHWEH calling the mountains as witnesses to what he teaches his wayward people. Do they not remember his mighty salvation in bringing them up out of Egypt to the Promised Land against fierce opposition along the way? It is not more ritual sacrifice that he requires now, but rather that people humbly keep in step with him.
Psalm
The Psalmist points out that those who would dwell with YAHWEH must walk blamelessly, speaking and doing the truth no matter the cost.
New Testament
St. Paul wants to ensure that no one can boast that they have achieved their own salvation: it is the Lord alone who saves. The message of the cross contradicts the means by which human beings normally acquire spiritual truth. It is foolishness to the Greeks who seek wisdom and weakness to the Jews who seek powerful signs.
Gospel
Matthew recounts how Jesus, having ascended a mountain, teaches his people about the path that leads to God. The ensuing Beatitudes embody a life of meekness and humility that will draw opposition and even persecution by contradicting a wayward world.