Second Sunday of Advent, December 9, 2018, Year C

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Full lections can be read here.

Based on the Readings as Set

First Reading (Malachi 3:1-4)

The prophet Malachi speaks of a time when temple worship is corrupt, but the Lord takes action, sending a messenger of the covenant before him. The messenger will act like a purifying and refining fire, reforming the priesthood and restoring righteous worship to the temple.

Psalm/Canticle (The Song of Zechariah-Luke 1:68-79)

Upon the miraculous birth of his son John, Zechariah prophesies by the Spirit that the Lord is about to fulfill the ancient promise of salvation through the line of David. John’s role is to prepare Messiah’s way as the time of salvation dawns, banishing darkness and bringing peace.

Second Reading (Philippians 1:3-11)

Paul continues to pray for his converts in Philippi, confident that God will continue his good work in and through them. He longs to see them filled with knowledge, producing a crop of righteousness through Christ, ready for the Day of his return. All this will be to God’s glory.

Gospel (Luke 3:1-6)

John the son of Zechariah appears in the wilderness around the Jordan river and preaching a baptism of repentance for the forgiveness of sins. He is fulfilling Isaiah’s prophecy of one who will prepare the way for the salvation of the Lord that is coming in the sight of all humanity.

CONNECTION SUGGESTIONS

  • John the Baptist
  • Preparing the way of the Lord
  • Salvation is of the Lord
  • Righteousness as preparation for the coming of the Lord

 

First Sunday of Advent, December 2, 2018, Year C

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Full lections can be read here.

Based on the Readings as Set

First Reading (Jeremiah 33:14-16)

In the last days of Judah, just before the nation went into exile and the line of David removed from the throne, the prophet Jeremiah has a startling word from the Lord. He says that a Day is coming when Judah and Israel will be restored under a righteous Davidic king ruling in justice.

Psalm (25:1-10)

The Psalmist turns to the Lord for protection asking for knowledge of his ways and to be led in his truth. He acknowledges his sin and makes his appeal based only on God’s mercy and love. He is the one who leads humble sinners in his blessed ways as they keep faith with him.

Second Reading (1 Thessalonians 3:9-13)

St. Paul is excited about the possibility of seeing the Thessalonians and asks the Lord to guide his way. He asks for their love for all to increase just as his has for them. And so that they might be blameless when Jesus comes, he prays that their hearts may be strengthened in holiness.

Gospel (Luke 21:25-36)

Jesus talks of fearful signs in the heavens and on the earth before the Son of Man comes in great glory. These things will indicate that the kingdom of God is near. He gives his word on it, urging us to live accordingly and to pray for strength both to escape and to stand before him.

CONNECTION SUGGESTIONS

  • The Day of the Lord marks both an end and a beginning
  • The anticipation of the return of Christ should positively affect the way we live
  • Jesus will be coming as Judge of all the earth
  • Jesus is the expected Davidic king
  • God will make a way where none seems possible

 

 

Last Sunday after Pentecost (Christ the King), Nov. 25, 2018, Proper 29, Year B

Lection Connection for US Thanksgiving Day can be found here.

Please see How to Use Lection Connection

Full lections can be read here.

Based on the Readings as Set

First Reading (2 Samuel 23:1-7)

David’s last words acknowledge that all of his greatness as a just ruler is due to the Lord. Marvelling that the Lord has made an everlasting covenant with him, he is assured of divine help to further his goals, unlike the godless who will inevitably come to naught.

Psalm (132:1-12, [13-18])

A prayer for the son of David, this Psalm remembers David’s desire to build a house for God and God’s promise to build a house for David, that is, a descendant of his on Israel’s throne forever. The Lord lives in Zion, his chosen city, blessing it with salvation and shaming its enemies.

Second Reading (Revelation 1:4b-8)

Writing to the seven churches of Asia, John blesses them in the name of Christ, the Alpha and Omega, who rules over all earthly kings. He loves us, and his blood has freed us from our sins, making us a kingdom of priests. Every eye shall see him when he comes to judge the earth.

Gospel (John 18:33-37)

Pilate asks Jesus if he is the king of the Jews and Jesus goes on to explain that he is a king but his kingdom is not of this world. If it was, his followers would be fighting to free him. As it is, he has come to testify to the truth and everyone who belongs to the truth will listen to him.

CONNECTION SUGGESTIONS

  • The eternal rule of Christ fulfills God’s covenant promise to David
  • The reign of Christ is continuous with earthly rule but transcends it as well
  • Earthly rulers are answerable to Christ and subject to his Judgment
  • The king of all the earth has subjected himself to it, in order to save it

Based on the Alternative Readings

First Reading (Daniel 7:9-10, 13-14)

In his vision, Daniel sees the Ancient of Days amidst myriads of attendants ascending his fiery throne to sit in judgment. He also sees a human figure like a “Son of Man” coming on the clouds to be given dominion over all peoples and nations in a kingship that endures forever.

Psalm (93)

The Psalmist depicts the Lord as King, with spectacular robes and great strength. He has made the world secure and established his throne. The waters lift their voice to one even mightier than themselves. His testimonies are sure and his house is beautified with holiness forever.

Second Reading (Revelation 1:4b-8)

Writing to the seven churches of Asia, John blesses them in the name of Christ, the Alpha and Omega, who rules over all earthly kings. He loves us, and his blood has freed us from our sins, making us a kingdom of priests. Every eye shall see him when he comes to judge the earth.

Gospel (John 18:33-37)

Pilate asks Jesus if he is the king of the Jews and Jesus goes on to explain that he is a king but his kingdom is not of this world. If it was, his followers would be fighting to free him. As it is, he has come to testify to the truth and everyone who belongs to the truth will listen to him.

CONNECTION SUGGESTIONS

  • The reign of Christ is continuous with earthly rule but transcends it as well
  • Earthly rulers are answerable to Christ and subject to his Judgment
  • The king of all the earth has subjected himself to it, in order to save it
  • The Christian can rest secure in the reign of Christ over all other powers

 

 

 

 

 

Thanksgiving Day, Nov. 22, 2018, Year B

Please see How to Use Lection Connection

Full lections can be read here.

Based on the Readings as Set

First Reading (Joel 2:21-27)

The prophet Joel reveals that the whole earth, nature, and Israel are to join in celebrating a coming era of abundant harvests. Their time of punishment and failed crops is coming to an end. These events will demonstrate that the Lord alone is God.

Psalm (126)

Reflecting on those blessed occasions when Yahweh had restored Israel’s fortunes in the past, the Psalmist calls upon him once again to act in like manner. Although his people have sown with tears he is confident that they shall reap in joy under Yahweh’s hand.

Second Reading (1 Timothy 2:1-7)

Speaking as the apostle to the Gentiles, St. Paul encourages prayers and thanksgivings to be made for everyone, including those with power to protect the church. It is God’s desire that all be saved through the mediation of Christ Jesus, the ransom for all.

Gospel (Matthew 6:25-33)

Jesus says that instead of striving and worrying over the necessities of life, his disciples are to seek God’s kingdom above all else. God marvelously provides for all his creation and we can trust him to provide for us, as we are the most valuable of his creatures.

CONNECTION SUGGESTIONS

  • Giving thanks for God’s provision for the necessities of life
  • God is still at work in creation and through people
  • God turns around our disobedience, tears, and worry and brings joy instead
  • The welfare of humankind is God’s primary focus

 

 

 

 

 

 

Twenty-Sixth Sunday after Pentecost, November 18, 2018, Proper 28, Year B

Please see How to Use Lection Connection

Full lections can be read here.

Based on the Readings as Set

First Reading (1 Samuel 1:4-20)

At the end of the time of the Judges, Hannah is tormented by a rival wife because she is barren. Even though she is loved by her husband, she is depressed. She vows to the Lord that if she has a son she will dedicate him to divine service. As a result, Samuel is born.

Psalm (1 Samuel 2:1-10)

Hannah praises the Lord, exulting in her victory over her rival. He is her Rock, the one who reverses the plight of the weak, the hungry and the barren. He controls our lives as the all-powerful creator, the judge who will conquer his foes and make everything right.

Second Reading (Hebrews 10:11-14, [15-18], 19-25)

Normal priests can only repeatedly offer ineffective sacrifices for sin. Christ offered himself once for all, perfecting sinners and putting the law in their hearts under a new covenant. We should therefore gather to encourage each other as the Day comes near.

Gospel (Mark 13:1-8)

Jesus’ disciples are impressed by the magnificent temple, but he tells them it will be destroyed. Wanting to know more and Jesus warns them that imposters will come, and many wars with earthquakes and famines, but these are only birth pangs, not the end.

CONNECTION SUGGESTIONS

  • Suffering can lead to joy as the Lord works out his salvation
  • God will bring human suffering and strife to an end
  • The work of Christ will both suffice and endure forever
  • In our helplessness and need we can find solace in God’s ultimate provision

Based on the Alternative Readings

First Reading (Daniel 12:1-3)

In a vision, the prophet Daniel sees Michael, Israel’s guardian angel, deliver them during a time of great anguish. Many shall rise from the dead and be judged. The wise and those who led many to righteousness receive great glory, but others receive only shame.

Psalm (16)

The Psalmist takes refuge in the Lord, his portion and cup, who shows him the path of a rewarding life. Sorrow comes to those who follow other gods, while those who trust in the Lord will be kept secure, avoid the Pit, and enjoy eternal joy in his Presence.

Second Reading (Hebrews 10:11-14, [15-18], 19-25)

Normal priests can only repeatedly offer ineffective sacrifices for sin. Christ offered himself once for all, perfecting sinners and putting the law in their hearts under a new covenant. We should therefore gather to encourage each other as the Day comes near.

Gospel (Mark 13:1-8)

Jesus’ disciples are impressed by the magnificent temple, but he tells them it will be destroyed. Wanting to know more and Jesus warns them that imposters will come, and many wars with earthquakes and famines, but these are only birth pangs, not the end.

CONNECTION SUGGESTIONS

  • Suffering can lead to joy as the Lord works out his salvation
  • God will bring his people through judgment into his Presence
  • The work of Christ will both suffice and endure forever
  • In our helplessness and need we can find solace in God’s ultimate provision

 

Twenty-Fifth Sunday after Pentecost, November 11, 2018, Proper 27, Year B

Please see How to Use Lection Connection

Full lections can be read here.

Based on the Readings as Set

First Reading (Ruth 3:1-5: 4:13-17)

Back home near Bethlehem, Naomi urges her widowed daughter-in-law Ruth to get the attention of Boaz, one of her own kin. Ruth, herself a foreigner, obeys, marries Boaz and bears his son Obed, the grandfather of king David. And so Naomi again has a “son”.

Psalm (127)

All human efforts, says the Psalmist, are futile unless the Lord is behind and in them, for all good things come from him. This includes sons: they bring honour to their happy father and the more the merrier.

Second Reading (Hebrews 9:21-28)

Christ, our high priest, entered the true sanctuary in heaven and into the very presence of God for us. His sacrifice, unlike earthly ones, was once and for all. He came to remove sin by his self-offering and will appear a second time to save those waiting for him.

Gospel (Mark 12:38-44)

Jesus teaches that those scribes who make a show of religion for the sake of their social status and yet routinely abuse widows will be harshly condemned. He says the little put into the temple treasury by a poor widow is more than all that the rich contribute.

CONNECTION SUGGESTIONS

  • Those who are most in need get most of God’s attention
  • Worldly wealth and heavenly wealth have an inverse relationship
  • Children are a gift from God
  • God is at work in history to accomplish his purposes

Based on the Alternative Readings

First Reading (1 Kings 17:8-16)

During his forecasted drought, Elijah asks a poor widow for bread even though she is about to make a last meal for her and her son from the little she has. He promises that the Lord will ensure that her supply will outlast the drought. She agrees and it comes true.

Psalm (146)

The Psalmist will praise the Lord all his days because, unlike human beings, the Lord is not changeable and will always keep his promises. He provides justice for the oppressed, reversing their plight, while watching over strangers, widows and orphans.

Second Reading (Hebrews 9:21-28)

Christ, our high priest, entered the true sanctuary in heaven and into the very presence of God for us. His sacrifice, unlike earthly ones, was once and for all. He came to remove sin by his self-offering and will appear a second time to save those waiting for him.

Gospel (Mark 12:38-44)

Jesus teaches that those scribes who make a show of religion for the sake of their social status and yet routinely abuse widows will be harshly condemned. He says the little put into the temple treasury by a poor widow is more than all that the rich contribute.

CONNECTION SUGGESTIONS

  • Those who are most in need get most of God’s attention
  • Worldly wealth and heavenly wealth have an inverse relationship
  • The Lord will honour our sacrifice for him
  • God is at work in history to accomplish his purposes

 

 

Twenty-Fourth Sunday after Pentecost, November 4, 2018, Proper 26, Year B

Lection Connection for All Saints’ Day can be found here.

Please see How to Use Lection Connection

Full lections can be read here.

Based on the Readings as Set

First Reading (Ruth 1:1-18)

Before there were kings in Israel, a widow named Naomi, finding herself bereft of husband and sons in a foreign country, decides to return home to Bethlehem in Judah. Her daughter-in-law Ruth insists on going and staying with her, even adopting her God.

  Psalm (146)

The Psalmist will praise the Lord all his days because, unlike human beings, he is not changeable and will always keep his promises. He provides justice for the oppressed, reversing their plight, while watching over strangers, widows and orphans.

Second Reading (Hebrews 9:11-14)

The writer makes it clear that the blood of Jesus our high priest was offered as a once for all sacrifice in the heavenly tabernacle. Himself without sin, he was able to cleanse our consciences from futile works, much more than any earthly sacrifices could ever do.

Gospel (Mark 12:28-34)

A scribe agrees with Jesus who holds the first commandment to be to love God with the totality of one’s being and the second to be to love one’s neighbour as oneself. Jesus tells him that he is close to the kingdom of God. His wisdom finally quieted his accusers.

CONNECTION SUGGESTIONS

  • Even the foreigner is our neighbor
  • The Lord cares especially for those in need (and so should we)
  • The Lord supplies what we need to come to him
  • Making God our first priority sets other things in proper order

Based on the Alternative Readings

First Reading (Deuteronomy 6:1-9)

As part of his farewell address, Moses tells the people of Israel that the laws he has given them are for their own welfare, enabling them to prosper greatly in the Land as the Lord had promised. They must love and obey him with the totality of their beings.

Psalm (119:1-8)

The Psalmist longs to keep the Lord’s commandments by learning them and fixing his attention upon them with the totality of his being. He knows that they that do so shall be kept happy and blameless, with a right to expect God’s assistance.

Second Reading (Hebrews 9:11-14)

The writer makes it clear that the blood of Jesus our high priest was offered as a once for all sacrifice in the heavenly tabernacle. Himself without sin, he was able to cleanse our consciences from futile works, much more than any earthly sacrifices could ever do.

Gospel (Mark 12:28-34)

A scribe agrees with Jesus who holds the first commandment to be to love God with the totality of one’s being and the second to be to love one’s neighbour as oneself. Jesus tells him that he is close to the kingdom of God. His wisdom finally quieted his accusers.

CONNECTION SUGGESTIONS

  • The Lord supplies what we need to come to him
  • Making God our first priority sets other things in their proper order
  • The Lord demands the totality of our beings
  • Following the laws of God leads to human flourishing

 

 

All Saints Day, November 1, 2018, Year B

Please see How to Use Lection Connection

Full lections can be read here.

Based on the Readings as Set

First Reading (Isaiah 25:6-9)

Isaiah looks forward to a time of great celebration when the Lord provides a rich feast honouring Israel before the nations. Death will be banished for ever and Israel will finally enjoy the salvation for which she has waited and joyfully credit the Lord her God.

 Psalm (24)

The Psalmist celebrates the Lord as creator and states that only the righteous can ascend into the presence of such an almighty God for blessing and vindication. The city gates are exhorted to lift themselves up in welcome to the Lord, the King of glory.

Second Reading (Revelation 21:1-6a)

In his great vision, John sees a new heaven and earth appear while the new Jerusalem descends out of heaven as the dwelling of God among his people. Tears and death are banished for ever as all things are made new by him who is the beginning and the end.

Gospel (John 11:32-44)

Jesus, arriving three days too late to heal Lazarus, is criticized by his grieving sister Mary. Moved, Jesus weeps on the way to his tomb. Praying that his Father will be glorified and belief generated, he calls the dead man out. He emerges still bound in his graveclothes.

CONNECTION SUGGESTIONS

  • God is bringing about a future in which death is no more
  • Jesus is bringing his Father’s future into our present
  • All sorrow and grief will be transcended in the kingdom of God when it fully arrives, but in the meantime…
  • The recipients of God’s salvation will be fully vindicated and blessed

Twenty-Third Sunday after Pentecost, October 28, 2018, Proper 25, Year B

Please see How to Use Lection Connection

Full lections can be read here.

Based on the Readings as Set

First Reading (Job 42:1-6, 10-17)

Realizing his inadequacy in comparison to the Lord, Job admits his presumption and repents. The Lord more than restores his wealth, friends, and children as comfort for his suffering. His beautiful daughters inherit with his sons when he dies in ripe old age.

 Psalm (34:1-8, [19-22])

The Psalmist calls for the Lord to be blessed and exalted because he will always save those who look to him. His angels protect them, and, though the righteous one goes through affliction, none of his bones will be broken. Evil and death await the wicked.

Second Reading (Hebrews 7:23-28)

The writer of Hebrews details the superiority of Jesus’ forever high priesthood. For all time he is able to save those who approach God through him. His sacrifice of himself, as the promised Son made perfect forever, is once for all, and for all time.

Gospel (Mark 10:46-52)

The disciples try to keep blind Bartimaeus from bothering Jesus, but he hears him anyway and calls him over. Naturally the man wants to see, and Jesus honours his faith by restoring his sight. As a result of his healing he immediately follows Jesus.

CONNECTION SUGGESTIONS

  • We are not promised a life free from trouble, but we are promised that God will see us through to deliverance
  • God is in the restoration business for those who approach him
  • Whatever losses we endure are eclipsed by far by what we receive when we remain faithful to Jesus
  • Jesus is not aloof from our need, being himself human

Based on the Alternative Readings

First Reading (Jeremiah 31:7-9)

As a result of their pleas, the Lord promises to bring the remnant of his people back to the Land. Although now scattered widely in exile, as their Father he will lead them all straight home without stumbling, including the blind, the lame and the pregnant.

Psalm (126)

Reflecting on those blessed occasions when the Lord had restored Israel’s fortunes in the past, the Psalmist calls upon him once again to act in like manner. Although his people have sown with tears he is confident that they shall reap in joy under the Lord’s hand.

Second Reading (Hebrews 7:23-28)

The writer of Hebrews details the superiority of Jesus’ forever high priesthood. For all time he is able to save those who approach God through him. His sacrifice of himself, as the promised Son made perfect forever, is once for all, and for all time.

Gospel (Mark 10:46-52)

The disciples try to keep blind Bartimaeus from bothering Jesus, but he hears him anyway and calls him over. Naturally the man wants to see, and Jesus honours his faith by restoring his sight. As a result of his healing he immediately follows Jesus.

CONNECTION SUGGESTIONS

  • We are not promised a life free from trouble, but we are promised that God will see us through to deliverance
  • Those who call out to the Lord may be sure that he will respond
  • God is in the restoration business for those who approach him
  • Jesus is not aloof from our need, being himself human

 

 

Twenty-Second Sunday after Pentecost, October 21, 2018, Proper 24, Year B

Please see How to Use Lection Connection

Full lections can be read here.

Based on the Readings as Set

First Reading (Job 38:1-7, [34-41])

The Lord answers Job, accusing him of speaking without knowledge. He charges Job to be a man and answer this: Were you there when I laid the earth’s precise foundations? Have you given wisdom to humankind? Do you control the rain or feed the wild beasts?

Psalm (104:1-9, 24, 35c)

The Psalmist blesses the Lord for his supreme majesty and creative power in establishing the secure foundations of the earth. He covered it with a great flood, but it endured and he set lasting borders for its waters. His wisdom is seen in all his works.

Second Reading (Hebrews 5:1-10)

High priests are chosen from among mortals to represent them to God and to offer sacrifices for their sins. Christ was so chosen, Son of God and priest forever. Because of his obedience through suffering he became the source of salvation for all who obey him.

Gospel (Mark 10:35-45)

James and John ask Jesus for the most prominent places in his kingdom, but he replies that these are not his to give. He then uses the opportunity to teach that, to be great, his disciples must be slaves to all, just as he came to give his life a ransom for many.

CONNECTION SUGGESTIONS

  • The creator has taken great care with his creation, our environment
  • There is a great difference between God and man: his ways are different than ours
  • Presumption always gets us in trouble
  • A little humility goes a long way

OR

Based on the Alternative Readings

First Reading (Isaiah 53:4-12)

Isaiah depicts God’s innocent Servant as bearing the infirmities and sins of many, his very life as an offering for their sin, suffering death as a result. However, he will see light and find his place among the great because he was numbered among the transgressors.

Psalm (91:9-16)

The Psalmist encourages those who trust in the Lord to have a sure confidence that no harm will befall them. They will be kept safe by guardian angels and the Lord will answer their prayers. They will enjoy a long life and experience his salvation.

Second Reading (Hebrews 5:1-10)

High priests are chosen from among mortals to represent them to God and to offer sacrifices for their sins. Christ was so chosen, Son of God and priest forever. Because of his obedience through suffering he became the source of salvation for all who obey him.

Gospel (Mark 10:35-45)

James and John ask Jesus for the most prominent places in his kingdom, but he replies that these are not his to give. He then uses the opportunity to teach that, to be great, his disciples must be slaves to all, just as he came to give his life a ransom for many.

CONNECTION SUGGESTIONS

  • There is a great difference between God and man: his ways are different than ours
  • Presumption always gets us in trouble
  • Surely he will bear our sorrows and carry our diseases
  • Christ suffered and died for us