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Full lections can be read here.
Based on the Readings as Set
First Reading (2 Samuel 5:1-5, 9-10)
Having been first made king over the one tribe of Judah, David is now accepted as king over all Israel. He becomes their shepherd and transforms the stronghold of Jerusalem into the impressive City of David. The Lord is with him during an expansive 40-year reign.
Psalm (48)
The Psalmist calls the people to praise the Lord because of the City of God, the great King. Its beauty and power cause opposing kings to flee and his people to ponder his love. Its reputation carries God’s name to the ends of the earth. Regard it well.
Second Reading (2 Corinthians 12:2-10)
Paul relates how he is unable to boast even about having had a revelation of Paradise. Indeed, he was given a thorn in the flesh to keep him humble. He prayed for relief but God replied that in this weakness grace would suffice and divine power be made known.
Gospel (Mark 6:1-13)
Jesus encounters the familiarity of contempt in his hometown of Nazareth and finds himself unable to minister effectively as a result. He proceeds to other villages and sends out his apostles more broadly, paired up on successful missions of their own.
CONNECTION SUGGESTIONS
- Whatever we do, it must be done to the glory of God, not ourselves
- We can do little of lasting value without the grace of God
- The mission of God is not limited to his chosen people
- The Lord raises up and uses the humble to establish and expand his kingdom
Based on the Alternative Readings
First Reading (Ezekiel 2:1-5)
The Lord calls Ezekiel and sends him on a mission to the stubborn and rebellious people of Israel. In this they are just like their ancestors, but whether they hear or refuse to hear the word of God, they will know that a prophet has been among them.
Psalm (123)
Like a servant under the absolute power of the master or mistress, the Psalmist expresses his complete dependence upon the Lord enthroned on high. He asks for merciful relief from the prideful contempt of those who are undisturbed by trouble.
Second Reading (2 Corinthians 12:2-10)
Paul relates how he is unable to boast even about having had a revelation of Paradise. Indeed, he was given a thorn in the flesh to keep him humble. He prayed for relief but God replied that in this weakness grace would suffice and divine power be made known.
Gospel (Mark 6:1-13)
Jesus encounters the familiarity of contempt in his hometown of Nazareth and finds himself unable to minister effectively as a result. He proceeds to other villages and sends out his apostles more broadly, paired up on successful missions of their own.
CONNECTION SUGGESTIONS
- It is obedience to the call that matters, not the results
- Hearing and seeing is not always believing
- Failure can be part of God’s plan for us
- Always be listening for the word of God, no matter the source