Please see How to Use Lection Connection
First Reading and Psalm
- Acts 2:42-47
- Psalm 23
Second Reading
- 1 Peter 2:19-25
Gospel
- John 10:1-10
Full lections can be read here.
Based on the Readings as Set
The early church, newly endowed with the Holy Spirit, is radically committed to the apostles’ teaching and to one another. The apostles themselves perform awesome miracles while everyone shares their belongings willingly, eating and worshipping joyfully in common. This deeply impresses all who see and many flock through the door into their amazing community. The Psalmist sees YHWH as a good shepherd who looks after his flock, abundantly providing for them even in difficult circumstances. Goodness and mercy characterize a life lived in his fold. St. Peter likens Christians to strayed sheep who have returned to Jesus their true shepherd. Although innocent, he has borne their sins and freed them to follow in the paths of righteousness. If they suffer unjustly he points out that they are only following his example. In John’s Gospel Jesus refers to himself as both the door of the sheepfold and the shepherd whose voice the sheep know. They enter by him and are saved and pastured by him, and by no other. Under his care they enjoy truly abundant life.
As Introductions and/or Bulletin Use
Old Testament
The early church, newly endowed with the Holy Spirit, is radically committed to the apostles’ teaching and to one another. The apostles themselves perform awesome miracles while everyone shares their belongings willingly, eating and worshipping joyfully in common. This deeply impresses all who see and many flock through the door into their amazing community.
Psalm
The Psalmist sees YHWH as a good shepherd who looks after his flock, abundantly providing for them even in difficult circumstances. Goodness and mercy characterize a life lived in his fold.
New Testament
St. Peter likens Christians to strayed sheep who have returned to Jesus their true shepherd. Although innocent, he has borne their sins and freed them to follow in the paths of righteousness. If they suffer unjustly he points out that they are only following his example.
Gospel
In John’s Gospel Jesus refers to himself as both the door of the sheepfold and the shepherd whose voice the sheep know. They enter by him and are saved and pastured by him, and by no other. Under his care they enjoy truly abundant life.