Seventh Sunday after Pentecost, July 28, 2019, Proper 12, Year C

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Full lections can be read here.

Based on the Readings as Set

First Reading (Hosea 1:2-10)

The Lord commands Hosea to marry a prostitute as a way of dramatizing Israel’s waywardness. The names that the Lord gives to their children indicate that severe judgment is coming. Even so, the nation will eventually be blessed and the relationship restored.

Psalm (85)

Based on previous restorations granted to Israel, the Psalmist intercedes for the nation in its current situation of need. He is confident the Lord will turn to them again in his unshakable love and faithfulness. The land will flourish in righteousness and peace once again.

Second Reading (Colossians 2: 6-15, [16-19])

Paul pleads with the Colossians to remain steadfast in Christ who is superior to any other source of spiritual truth and power. Identified with him through baptismal faith, they share in his triumph over sin, death and the law. They should ignore anyone who says anything else.

Gospel (Luke 11:1-13)

Jesus teaches his disciples how to pray by example and instruction. He provides them with a model prayer to follow and encourages persistence. He promises them that such prayer will succeed because God is more prepared to bless than any human fathers.

CONNECTION SUGGESTIONS

  • The need for constancy in our relationship with God
  • God is the same yesterday, today and forever
  • The predisposition of the Lord to remain faithful and to bless
  • Even in judgment there is hope for mercy
  • There is always room for prayer

 

Based on the Alternative Readings

First Reading (Genesis18:20-32)

During Abraham’s encounter with the three visitors, the Lord indicates that Sodom’s extreme wickedness must be dealt with. Abraham manages to negotiate the number of righteous inhabitants for whom the Lord would be willing to spare the city from fifty down to ten.

Psalm (138)

The Psalmist is thankful for God’s steadfast love and faithfulness. His word is heard by all the kings of the earth, who praise him as well. In spite of his greatness he favours the lowly over the proud. In troubled times, the Psalmist is confident of the Lord’s protection and purpose for him.

Second Reading (Colossians 2: 6-15, [16-19])

Paul pleads with the Colossians to remain steadfast in Christ who is superior to any other source of spiritual truth and power. Identified with him through baptismal faith, they share in his triumph over sin, death and the law. They should ignore anyone who says anything else.

Gospel (Luke 11:1-13)

Jesus teaches his disciples how to pray by example and instruction. He provides them with a model prayer to follow and encourages persistence. He promises them that such prayer will succeed because God is more prepared to bless than any human fathers.

CONNECTION SUGGESTIONS

  • The Lord enters into genuine relationships with humankind in spite of his infinite superiority
  • The predisposition of the Lord to remain faithful and to bless
  • Even in judgment there is hope for mercy
  • There is always room for prayer
  • Never give up on God