Please see How to Use Lection Connection
First Reading and Psalm
- Genesis 25:19-34
- Psalm 119:105-112
OR
- Isaiah 55:10-13
- Psalm 65:(1-8), 9-13
Second Reading
- Romans 8:1-11
Gospel
- Matthew 13:1-9, 18-23
Full lections can be read here.
Based on the Readings as Set
With the provision of Rebekah as a wife for Isaac, Yahweh’s word of many descendants for Abraham takes the next step to fulfillment. Her barrenness is only a temporary threat that is soon overcome and she soon conceives twins. Yahweh’s word to her is that, contrary to custom, the older will serve the younger. Later, a famished Esau despises his birthright, thoughtlessly selling it to Jacob for a simple meal. The Psalmist, although severely afflicted and under threat, declares his confidence in the word of Yahweh as his heritage forever. The divine word will light his way and provide him with life. St. Paul contrasts the way of Law with the way of the Spirit of Christ. Jesus has fulfilled the Law and its requirements 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. Jesus uses the parable of the sower to demonstrate the extreme fruitfulness of the word of the kingdom. But it will not grow properly in those who do not understand, persist in persecution or allow wealth or the cares of the world to distract them.
As Introductions and/or Bulletin Use
First Reading
With the provision of Rebekah as a wife for Isaac, Yahweh’s word of many descendants for Abraham takes the next step to fulfillment. Her barrenness is only a temporary threat that is soon overcome and she soon conceives twins. Yahweh’s word to her is that, contrary to custom, the older will serve the younger. Later, a famished Esau despises his birthright, thoughtlessly selling it to Jacob for a simple meal.
Psalm
The Psalmist, although severely afflicted and under threat, declares his confidence in the word of Yahweh as his heritage forever. The divine word will light his way and provide him with life.
Second Reading
St. Paul contrasts the way of Law with the way of the Spirit of Christ. Jesus has fulfilled the Law and its requirements 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
Jesus uses the parable of the sower to demonstrate the extreme fruitfulness of the word of the kingdom. But it will not grow properly in those who do not understand, persist in persecution or allow wealth or the cares of the world to distract them.
Based on the Alternative Readings
Isaiah affirms that Yahweh’s word is as fruitful as rain and snow on the earth, always accomplishing its purpose. He then tells Israel that the nation will come back from exile in great joy and peace. The event will serve as an everlasting memorial as even creation itself is transformed. 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 who benefit directly from his watering of the earth, causing it to produce abundant fruit. St. Paul contrasts the way of Law with the way of the Spirit of Christ. Jesus has fulfilled the Law and its requirements 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. Jesus uses the parable of the sower to demonstrate the extreme fruitfulness of the word of the kingdom. But it will not grow properly in those who do not understand, persist in persecution or allow wealth or the cares of the world to distract them.
As Introductions and/or Bulletin Use
First Reading
Isaiah affirms that Yahweh’s word is as fruitful as rain and snow on the earth, always accomplishing its purpose. He then tells Israel that the nation will come back from exile in great joy and peace. The event will serve as an everlasting memorial as even creation itself is transformed.
Psalm
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 who benefit directly from his watering of the earth, causing it to produce abundant fruit.
Second Reading
St. Paul contrasts the way of Law with the way of the Spirit of Christ. Jesus has fulfilled the Law and its requirements 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
Jesus uses the parable of the sower to demonstrate the extreme fruitfulness of the word of the kingdom. But it will not grow properly in those who do not understand, persist in persecution or allow wealth or the cares of the world to distract them.