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Full lections can be read here.
Based on the Readings as Set
First Reading (Isaiah 52:13-53:12)
Isaiah tells of the coming Servant of the Lord who will undergo humiliation, rejection and great injustice. Like a sacrificial lamb he will silently bear the sins of many and make them whole. Assigned to the grave, in the end he will be vindicated and exalted in triumph.
Psalm (22)
Encircled by enemies like raging beasts, the Psalmist despairs in God’s seeming absence. Melting with fear as lots are cast for his clothes, he still trusts that he will be delivered so mightily that the nations, the dead, and posterity itself will come to serve the Lord.
Second Reading (Hebrews 10:16-25)
The writer of Hebrews describes Jesus as both priest and sacrificial victim who made a way for us to come to God with clean hearts. As a result, we should continue to meet together in mutual encouragement towards love and good deeds.
Gospel (John 18:1-19:42)
Quoting both Jesus himself and Scripture, John stresses how God is in control of Jesus’ trials and crucifixion. Pilate, knowing Jesus innocent, gives in to the raging crowd and he is crucified. Soldiers cast lots for his tunic while Jesus gives up his life and is buried.
CONNECTION SUGGESTIONS
- Suffering and troubles do not signify the absence of God
- As high priest Jesus offers himself, both priest and victim.
- The profound and mysterious love of God for us sinners
- The cost of our salvation to God and his Son
- Conforming to God’s will comes with a cost
- All we like sheep have gone astray
Based on the Alternate Second Reading
First Reading (Isaiah 52:13-53:12)
Isaiah tells of the coming Servant of the Lord who will undergo humiliation, rejection and great injustice. Like a sacrificial lamb he will silently bear the sins of many and make them whole. Assigned to the grave, in the end he will be vindicated and exalted in triumph.
Psalm (22)
Encircled by enemies like raging beasts, the Psalmist despairs in God’s seeming absence. Melting with fear as lots are cast for his clothes, he still trusts that he will be delivered so mightily that the nations, the dead, and posterity itself will come to serve the Lord.
Second Reading (Hebrews 4:14-16; 5:7-9)
The writer of Hebrews exults in our having such an approachable and sympathetic high priest as Jesus, tested in every way but without sin. Facing death, he begged God to save him but in the end submitted to his will and became the source of eternal salvation.
Gospel (John 18:1-19:42)
Quoting both Jesus himself and Scripture, John stresses how God is in control of Jesus’ trials and crucifixion. Pilate, knowing Jesus innocent, gives in to the raging crowd and he is crucified. Soldiers cast lots for his tunic while Jesus gives up his life and is buried.
CONNECTION SUGGESTIONS
- Suffering and troubles do not signify the absence of God
- The profound and mysterious love of God for us sinners
- The cost of our salvation to God and his Son
- Conforming to God’s will comes with a cost
- All we like sheep have gone astray
- The humanity of Christ is our salvation