Please see How to Use Lection Connection.
First Reading and Psalm
- Jeremiah 31:27-34
- Psalm 119:97-104
Second Reading
- 2 Timothy 3:14-4:5
Gospel
- Luke 18:1-8
Alternative First Reading and Psalm
- Genesis 32:22-31
- Psalm 121
Full lections can be read here.
Connection Based on the Readings as Set
Through Jeremiah YAHWEH promises a new covenant with Israel as the end result of his faithful watching over the beleaguered nation. While he may not have appeared to be listening while they suffered, all would be clear when he finally acted. In a new covenantal relationship he would put his law permanently in their hearts, forgiving and forgetting their past unfaithfulness. The Psalmist exults in the law of God, the practice of which makes him wiser than any of his enemies, teachers or elders. Such divine words are sweeter than honey itself. Paul reminds Timothy of the inspired nature of the Scriptures and their ability to form spiritually those willing to listen to them. Not listening guarantees wandering away from the truth. In the Gospel Jesus tells a parable in which a judge is forced to grant justice to an audacious widow by the sheer persistence of her asking. So it is that God will surely not resist the cry of the faithful who suffer. Justice delayed is not justice denied, but its delay poses a serious challenge to faith.
As Introductions
Old Testament
Through Jeremiah YAHWEH promises a new covenant with Israel as the end result of his faithful watching over the beleaguered nation. While he may not have appeared to be listening while they suffered, all would be clear when he finally acted. In a new covenantal relationship he would put his law permanently in their hearts, forgiving and forgetting their past unfaithfulness.
Psalm
The Psalmist exults in the law of God, the practice of which makes him wiser than any of his enemies, teachers or elders. Such divine words are sweeter than honey itself.
New Testament
Paul reminds Timothy of the inspired nature of the Scriptures and their ability to form spiritually those willing to listen to them. Not listening guarantees wandering away from the truth.
Gospel
In the Gospel Jesus tells a parable in which a judge is forced to grant justice to an audacious widow by the sheer persistence of her asking. So it is that God will surely not resist the cry of the faithful who suffer. Justice delayed is not justice denied, but its delay poses a serious challenge to faith.
Connection Based on Alternative Readings
Jacob’s audacity and persistence in his wrestling bout with a mysterious “man” pays off with a profound blessing. His new name, Israel, reveals that he has been wrestling with God himself. It also hints at the nature of his descendants’ relationship with both God and humanity. The Psalmist knows where to look for help: to YAHWEH alone. It is he who “keeps” us: he will not sleep through our need, whatever that need might be. Paul reminds Timothy of the inspired nature of the Scriptures and their ability to form spiritually those willing to listen to them. Not listening guarantees wandering away from the truth. In the Gospel Jesus tells a parable in which a judge is forced to grant justice to an audacious widow by the sheer persistence of her asking. So it is that God will surely not resist the cry of the faithful who suffer. Justice delayed is not justice denied, but its delay poses a serious challenge to faith.
As Introductions
Old Testament
Jacob’s audacity and persistence in his wrestling bout with a mysterious “man” pays off with a profound blessing. His new name, Israel, reveals that he has been wrestling with God himself. It also hints at the nature of his descendants’ relationship with both God and humanity.
Psalm
The Psalmist knows where to look for help: to YAHWEH alone. It is he who “keeps” us: he will not sleep through our need, whatever that need might be.
New Testament
Paul reminds Timothy of the inspired nature of the Scriptures and their ability to form spiritually those willing to listen to them. Not listening guarantees wandering away from the truth.
Gospel
In the Gospel Jesus tells a parable in which a judge is forced to grant justice to an audacious widow by the sheer persistence of her asking. So it is that God will surely not resist the cry of the faithful who suffer. Justice delayed is not justice denied, but its delay poses a serious challenge to faith.