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Second Sunday after the Epiphany, January 17, 2021

Please see Using Lection Connection.

Full lections can be read here.

Based on the Readings as Set

First Reading (1 Samuel 3:1-10, [11-20])

Toward the end of the rule of the judges, the word of the Lord unexpectedly comes to the boy Samuel who was serving under Eli the priest. It is a challenging message for the budding prophet as it concerns the Lord’s coming punishment upon Eli and his sons.

Psalm (139:1-6, 13-18)

The Psalmist celebrates the fact that the Lord not only knows him inside out, but also wondrously formed him in his mother’s womb knowing what plans he had for him. Such a God far exceeds the Psalmist’s ability to fully comprehend.

Second Reading (1 Corinthians 6:12-20)

In stressing the freedom of Christians, Paul takes care to point out that not all things are beneficial. He is especially concerned about sexual sins because they violate the body, which is made for the Lord, for his glory, and is the temple of the Holy Spirit.

Gospel (John 1:43-51)

After responding to Jesus’ call, Philip tells Nathaniel that he has found the Expected One. After Jesus shows that he had intimate prior knowledge of him he believes and is told that he will come to understand more about the true identity of the Son of Man.

CONNECTION SUGGESTIONS

• The call of God
• God makes himself known (reveals himself)
• We are personally known and cared for by the Lord
• The Lord orders our life for his purposes
• Bodily existence is spiritually significant

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Third Sunday after Pentecost, June 30, 2019, Proper 8, Year C

Please see How to Use Lection Connection

Full lections can be read here.

Based on the Readings as Set

First Reading (2 Kings 2:1-2, 6-14)

As Elijah nears the end of his life, young Elisha refuses to leave his side. After a chariot of fire takes the older man up into heaven, Elisha picks up Elijah’s mantle and inherits a double portion of his spirit. To cross the Jordan he, like Elijah, divides it with his mantle.

Psalm (77:1-2, 11-20)

The Psalmist cries out to the Lord to hear him in his hour of need. He gathers strength from remembering God’s mighty deeds of deliverance of Israel in the past as well as his great power displayed in creation.

Second Reading (Galatians 5:1, 13-25)

Paul emphasizes that Christian freedom is grounded in love and guided by the Holy Spirit. It is not the freedom to sin but to act in accordance with God’s law as the Spirit produces his fruit in our lives. This is life in the Spirit in contrast to life in the flesh.

Gospel (Luke 9:51-62)

As Jesus makes his way to Jerusalem for the last time he impresses a sense of urgency upon anyone who would dare to follow him. The advance of the kingdom has supreme priority over all other concerns, legitimate though they might be.

CONNECTION SUGGESTIONS

  • The way of the Lord is not easy, but it comes with his provision and enabling
  • Sometimes we need to get out of God’s way and let go
  • Through his Spirit, God will find a way to accomplish his purposes
  • Where Jesus leaves off, his Spirit continues

Based on the Alternative Readings

First Reading (1 Kings 19:15-16, 19-21)

As part of his encounter with the Lord at Sinai, Elijah is told to go to anoint new kings in Syria and Israel and then anoint Elisha as his successor. He encounters the latter plowing in the field and permits him to say a proper goodbye to his parents.

Psalm (16)

In seeking the protection of the Lord, the Psalmist reflects on the many benefits of trusting in him. He has avoided great sorrows as well as enjoying a pleasant life and heritage. He rests secure in the Lord’s presence, counsel and blessing.

Second Reading (Galatians 5:1, 13-25)

Paul emphasizes that Christian freedom is grounded in love and guided by the Holy Spirit. It is not the freedom to sin but to act in accordance with God’s law as the Spirit produces his fruit in our lives. This is life in the Spirit in contrast to life in the flesh.

Gospel (Luke 9:51-62)

As Jesus makes his way to Jerusalem for the last time he impresses a sense of urgency upon anyone who would dare to follow him. Time is running out and the advance of the kingdom has supreme priority over all other concerns, legitimate though they might be.

CONNECTION SUGGESTIONS

  • The kingdom comes with its priorities
  • The way of the Lord is not easy, but it comes with his provision and enabling
  • Through his Spirit, God will find a way to accomplish his purposes
  • Where Jesus leaves off, his Spirit continues