Please see How to Use Lection Connection
First Reading and Psalm
- Isaiah 9:1-4
- Psalm 27:1, 4-9
Second Reading
- 1 Corinthians 1:10-18
Gospel
- Matthew 4:12-23
Full lections can be read here.
Based on the Readings as Set
The prophet Isaiah, speaking at a time of distress, declares that a time is coming in which Galilee, although dominated by Gentiles and held in contempt, will be the first to experience the glorious light of liberation. This will happen like it did when Gideon’s tiny band defeated the powerful army of the Midians in the days of old. The Psalmist declares his trust in YAHWEH as his light and salvation and in whose presence he desires to dwell concealed from his enemies. There he will be sure to rise above them and be safe, if only YAHWEH will grant him a hearing. St. Paul exhorts the Corinthians to live in the unity of the one in whose name they have been baptized. He reminds them that his own calling is not even to baptize, let alone have people be his disciples. He is only a servant of Christ, who has sent him to preach the gospel of the cross that, although seeming foolish to unbelievers, is actually the power of God for salvation. St. Matthew tells us that when Jesus withdrew to obscurity in Galilee, a region long under a Gentile cloud, he was fulfilling the prophecy of Isaiah. It is there that he begins to assemble his tiny band of disciples and the dawning light of God’s kingdom blessings begins to shine in the darkness.
As Introductions
Old Testament
The prophet Isaiah, speaking at a time of distress, declares that a time is coming in which Galilee, although dominated by Gentiles and held in contempt, will be the first to experience the glorious light of liberation. This will happen like it did when Gideon’s tiny band defeated the powerful army of the Midians in the days of old.
Psalm
The Psalmist declares his trust in YAHWEH as his light and salvation and in whose presence he desires to dwell concealed from his enemies. There he will be sure to rise above them and be safe, if only YAHWEH will grant him a hearing.
New Testament
St. Paul exhorts the Corinthians to live in the unity of the one in whose name they have been baptized. He reminds them that his own calling is not even to baptize, let alone have people be his disciples. He is only a servant of Christ, who has sent him to preach the gospel of the cross that, although seeming foolish to unbelievers, is actually the power of God for salvation.
Gospel
St. Matthew tells us that when Jesus withdrew to obscurity in Galilee, a region long under a Gentile cloud, he was fulfilling the prophecy of Isaiah. It is there that he begins to assemble his tiny band of disciples and the dawning light of God’s kingdom blessings begins to shine in the darkness.