Please see Using Lection Connection.
Full lections can be read here.
Based on the Readings as Set
First Reading (Exodus 33:12-23)
The Lord promises Moses that his Presence will remain with Israel, demonstrating her unique status among the nations. In order to reassure him, the Lord grants his request to see the divine glory, but only a glimpse is allowed for his own protection.
Psalm (99)
The Psalmist begins with the affirmation of the Lord as King of all peoples, a King whose love of justice and righteousness has been displayed first of all in Israel. Three times he calls the people to worship in his holy and awesome Presence.
Second Reading (1 Thessalonians 1:1-10)
Paul knows his readers are among God’s chosen because his preaching of the Gospel was in the power of the Spirit and they responded with faith. Having turned from idols to become joyful examples in spite of persecution, they await Jesus’ saving return.
Gospel (Matthew 22:15-22)
Some Pharisees try to discredit Jesus by asking him about an unpopular Roman tax. He asks them whose face and caption are on the coin being used. It is the emperor’s, they admit, and fall silent when Jesus says to give to both emperor and God what is theirs.
CONNECTION SUGGESTIONS
- Everything in all creation belongs to God and joins in worshipping him
- God calls all peoples to worship him alone
- The blessings we enjoy are intended to turn others to the Lord
- The importance of the right attitude when confronted with the truth of God
- To whom do we owe ultimate allegiance?
- The holiness of God
- The Lord is not safe, but he is good (apologies to C.S. Lewis)
- God is sovereign over all kings and rulers
Scripture Sentence (BAS, Canada)
Shine as lights in the world, holding fast the word of life. See Philippians 2.15, 16
Collect of the Day (BAS, Canada)
Almighty and everliving God,
increase in us your gift of faith,
that forsaking what lies behind
and reaching out to what is before,
we may run the way of your commandments and win the crown of everlasting joy; through Jesus Christ our Lord, who lives and reigns with you and the Holy Spirit, one God, now and for ever. AMEN
Based on the Alternate Readings
First Reading (Isaiah 45:1-7)
The Lord describes Cyrus the Persian emperor as his anointed servant, through whom he is working on behalf of Israel. The Lord affirms his divine sovereignty over Cyrus and history itself. His actions are intended to make his unique status universally known.
Psalm (96:1-9, [10-13])
In a breathtaking affirmation of the Lord’s absolute sovereignty over all the earth, the Psalmist calls all nations to come to worship him as the only king. He is the all-powerful creator and judge, while other gods are mere idols. Nature itself joyfully worships him.
Second Reading (1 Thessalonians 1:1-10)
Paul knows his readers are among God’s chosen because his preaching of the Gospel was in the power of the Spirit and they responded with faith. Having turned from idols to become joyful examples in spite of persecution, they await Jesus’ saving return.
Gospel (Matthew 22:15-22)
Some Pharisees try to discredit Jesus by asking him about an unpopular Roman tax. He asks them whose face and caption are on the coin being used. It is the emperor’s, they admit, and fall silent when Jesus says to give to both emperor and God what is theirs.
CONNECTION SUGGESTIONS
- Everything in all creation belongs to God and joins in worshipping him
- To whom do we owe ultimate allegiance?
- God is sovereign over all earthly kings and rulers
- God is accomplishing his purposes in history
- Turning from idols to the living God
- The joy of following Jesus
Scripture Sentence (BAS, Canada)
Shine as lights in the world, holding fast the word of life. See Philippians 2.15, 16
Collect of the Day (BAS, Canada)
Almighty and everliving God,
increase in us your gift of faith,
that forsaking what lies behind
and reaching out to what is before,
we may run the way of your commandments and win the crown of everlasting joy; through Jesus Christ our Lord, who lives and reigns with you and the Holy Spirit, one God, now and for ever. AMEN