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Second Sunday after the Epiphany, Year A, January 19, 2020

Please see How to Use Lection Connection

Full lections can be read here.

Based on the Readings as Set

First Reading (Isaiah 49:1-7)

Isaiah speaks of the Lord’s chosen servant who is to turn Israel back to God and be used for his glory, manifesting the light of salvation to the nations. Presently despised, Israel will be so noticeably blessed that even foreign kings shall worship the Lord.

Psalm (40:1-11)

The Psalmist speaks as someone whom the Lord has rescued from the pit, set on a rock, and enabled to sing a new song that leads many to faith. It is not temple sacrifices that have saved him, but simply God’s love and mercy, and he now delights in his law.

Second Reading (1 Corinthians 1:1-9)

St. Paul celebrates the grace of God that has been manifested to the Corinthians as part of the fellowship of Christ being instituted throughout the entire world. Through grace they have been enriched by having every spiritual gift poured out upon them.

Gospel (John 1:29-42)

John the Baptist appears as a mere servant pointing to a greater one to come. Seeing the Holy Spirit descend upon his cousin Jesus, John identifies him as both the Son and Lamb of God. Two of John’s disciples follow Jesus and then recruit Peter, or “the Rock”.

CONNECTION SUGGESTIONS

  • Grace is characteristic of the manifestation of the Lord
  • God uses those he has lifted up for his greater glory
  • The ones God has saved are set upon the surest of foundations
  • We cannot be silent about what God has done for us
  • When God’s people wholeheartedly proclaim God’s blessings, the whole world will be drawn to him
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Second Sunday after Pentecost, June 23, 2019, Proper 7, Year C

Please see How to Use Lection Connection

Full lections can be read here.

Based on the Readings as Set

First Reading (1 Kings19:1-4, [5-7] 8-15a)

Queen Jezebel threatens the life of Elijah, the prophet of the Lord who had just bested and destroyed the prophets of Baal, her god. Elijah flees to the desert but falls into depression. The Lord comes to him at Sinai in the silence after earthquake and fire.

 Psalms (42 and 43)

In spite of despairing in the seeming absence of God and being oppressed by his enemies, the Psalmist finds refuge in his memory of past encounters with the Lord. He knows that he will be vindicated in the end and again rejoice in divine help.

Second Reading (Galatians 3:23-29)

Before Christ came the way to God was by means of law but now it is by means of faith. Law imprisons but faith, by joining us to Christ, enables us to share in being children of God. All other distinctions such as race, gender or social status, no longer apply.

Gospel (Luke 8:26-39)

Venturing into Gentile territory, Jesus encounters a man totally possessed by demons. Jesus sovereignly casts them out into a herd of swine, who drown themselves. The local people are filled with fear and Jesus departs, leaving the healed man to bear witness.

CONNECTION SUGGESTIONS

  • Christ always leaves a witness
  • The Lord is superior to all who are opposed to him
  • The Lord is sovereign over all the world and all powers
  • God’s children are never in foreign territory
  • Opposition to God, while powerful, is unable to stand in his way

Based on the Alternative Readings

First Reading (Isaiah 65:1-9)

Isaiah expresses his frustration at being rebuffed by the people of Israel who were following other gods and foreign religious practices. The Lord declares that they will be punished, but, for the sake of his servant, restored instead of destroyed.

Psalm (22:19-28)

Under vicious attack from his enemies, the Psalmist cries out to the Lord for help. He remains confident of a favourable response because of previous deliverances. All the earth will turn to the Lord and worship him because he rules supreme over the earth.

Second Reading (Galatians 3:23-29)

Before Christ the way to God was by means of law but now it is by means of faith. Law imprisons but faith, by joining us to Christ, enables us to share in being children of God. All other distinctions such as race, gender or social status, no longer apply.

Gospel (Luke 8:26-39)

Venturing into Gentile territory, Jesus encounters a man totally possessed by demons. Jesus sovereignly casts them out into a herd of swine, who drown themselves. The local people are filled with fear and Jesus departs, leaving the healed man to bear witness.

CONNECTION SUGGESTIONS

  • Christ always leaves a witness
  • The Lord is superior to all who are opposed to him
  • The Lord is sovereign over all the world and all powers
  • God’s children are never in foreign territory
  • Opposition to God, while powerful, is unable to stand in his way
  • We cannot earn our salvation

 

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Fifth Sunday in Lent, April 7, 2019, Year C

Please see How to Use Lection Connection

Full lections can be read here.

Based on the Readings as Set

First Reading (Isaiah 43:16-21)

At a very low point in the history of Israel, Isaiah, pointing to how the Lord saved Israel at the Red Sea, challenges the nation to look to the future for God to do a new thing. The wilderness will be transformed into a life-giving paradise, causing his people to break into praise.

Psalm (126)

The Psalmist anticipates a time when Israel is restored and becomes the envy of the nations. He calls upon the Lord to bring this vision to glorious reality, turning present weeping into joyful shouts. Those who have sown the tears of sorrow shall reap bountiful harvest of happiness.

Second Reading (Philippians 3:4b-14)

Paul states that his impeccable religious credentials amounted only to rubbish in terms of righteousness. The latter can only come through faith in Christ and the power of his resurrection. It is only this work of Christ that drives him to do good and attain heaven.

Gospel (John 12:1-8)

As his last Passover approaches, Mary anoints Jesus’ feet with a costly and fragrant perfume. This extravagance annoyed Judas but Jesus knows that Mary had bought it for his burial. He points out that he is soon going to leave them and will have plenty of time to help the poor.

CONNECTION SUGGESTIONS

  • Living now in anticipation of the Kingdom of God to come
  • The immense value of knowing Christ
  • The God who can bring life out of death
  • Responding to God works in joy and praise

 

 

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Thirteenth Sunday after Pentecost, September 3, 2017, Proper 17, Year A

Please see How to Use Lection Connection

Full lections can be read here.

Based on the Readings as Set

First Reading (Exodus 3:1-15)

Yahweh mysteriously appears to Moses in the burning bush at Mt. Sinai, identifying himself as the God of the patriarchs, Abraham, Isaac and Jacob. He has heard the cry of his oppressed people back in Egypt and now he is going to send Moses to deliver the captives, leading them out to the Promised Land. The name by which he wishes to be known to them is simply “I AM WHO I AM”.

Psalm (105:1-6, 23-26, 45c)

The Psalmist encourages the people to remember Yahweh’s miracles and judgments and, while taking care to look to him alone, make his deeds known among the nations. He caused Israel to grow mightily even while persecuted in Egypt and sent Moses to deliver them so that they might serve him faithfully.

Second Reading (Romans 12:9-24)

St. Paul exhorts the Christian community to have genuine love for one another and serve the Lord faithfully especially when under persecution. Instead of taking revenge on their enemies themselves they are to put it into God’s hands, knowing that good will ultimately triumph over evil.

Gospel (Matthew 16:21-28)

Right after he had praised Peter for recognizing him as Messiah Jesus rebukes him for not understanding that suffering and death are ahead for both Messiah and his disciples. We are not to seek to save our lives, but to deny ourselves and follow Jesus, remembering that he will repay many times over in the resurrection.

CONNECTION SUGGESTIONS

• It is God who saves us, not we ourselves

• Doing good will triumph over evil

• Suffering is to be expected as part of the Christian life

• Relief from suffering is in God’s hands

• We are to follow in God’s ways in all circumstances, loving God, fellow Christians and our enemies

• The need to remain faithful, especially under pressure to conform to this world

Based on the Alternative Set of Readings

First Reading (Jeremiah 15:15-21)

Jeremiah makes his case to Yahweh, asking that his persecutors suffer retribution. He claims to have been faithful but his suffering is growing worse, making him wonder if Yahweh will fail him. Yahweh, on the other hand, sees a need for Jeremiah to turn back to God in order to be restored to his calling and delivered from his foes.

Psalm (26:1-8)

Because he has been faithful in his walk, the Psalmist expects vindication from Yahweh. He even challenges Yahweh to test him in his innocence. He has not kept company with sinners, but has joined the procession of praise and thanksgiving around the altar instead. He loves the house of God because of the divine presence that is gloriously evident there.

Second Reading (Romans 9:1-5)

St. Paul exhorts the Christian community to have genuine love for one another and serve the Lord faithfully especially when under persecution. Instead of taking revenge on their enemies themselves they are to put it into God’s hands, knowing that good will ultimately triumph over evil.

Gospel (Matthew 14:13-21)

Right after he had praised Peter for recognizing him as Messiah Jesus rebukes him for not understanding that suffering and death are ahead for both Messiah and his disciples. We are not to seek to save our lives, but to deny ourselves and follow Jesus, remembering that he will repay many times over in the resurrection.

CONNECTION SUGGESTIONS

• It is God who saves us, not we ourselves

• Doing good will triumph over evil

• Suffering is to be expected as part of the Christian life

• Relief from suffering is in God’s hands

• We are to follow in God’s ways in all circumstances, loving God, fellow Christians and our enemies

• The need to remain faithful, especially under pressure to conform to this world

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Eleventh Sunday after Pentecost, August 20, 2017, Proper 15, Year A

Please see How to Use Lection Connection

Full lections can be read here.

Based on the Readings as Set

First Reading (Genesis 45:1-15)

Years after selling Joseph into slavery in Egypt, his brothers do not recognize him as the Egyptian government official in a position to save them in a time of famine. When he reveals himself to them they are filled with fear, but he reassures them, stating that it was God who sent him on ahead in order to preserve their whole family. They wept and talked together in a moving scene of reconciliation.

Psalm (133)

The Psalmist describes the blessing of family unity using two metaphors of excess: the anointing oil that had overflowed Aaron in connection with his consecration as high priest and the drenching dew on the mountains of Israel. In all of this benevolence can be glimpsed a picture of the rich blessing of Yahweh, life forever more.

Second Reading (Romans 11:1-2a, 29-32)

Paul reassures his readers that what he has been saying in no way implies God’s rejection of the Jewish people. It is true that their general negative response to the Gospel has opened the door for Gentiles but it must be remembered that both divisions of the human family have been disobedient but both have also been shown mercy.

Gospel (Matthew 15:[10-20], 21-28)

Concerning the distinctive Jewish food laws, Jesus emphasizes that true defilement originates in the sinful heart rather than from food taken into the mouth. Then he moves into Gentile territory where a local woman calls out to him to have mercy on her demon-possessed daughter. At first Jesus declines because, as he tells the disciples, he has been sent only to the Jewish people. But when he perceives her persistent faith he puts all that aside and heals her daughter.

CONNECTION SUGGESTIONS

• The blessing of family unity (including the human family)
• God’s providential care for his people
• The equality of Jew and Gentile in the kingdom of God
• Mercy (Grace) trumps disobedience
• The heart of the matter is a matter of the heart

Based on the Alternative Set of Readings

First Reading (Isaiah 56:1, 6-8)

The prophet Isaiah envisions Yahweh’s coming salvation as clearly including Gentiles as well as Israelites. Foreigners will come to worship on Mount Zion and the Temple will be known as a house of prayer for all nations. All those now considered outcasts, both Jew and Gentile, will be gathered together by Yahweh.

Psalm (67)

The Psalmist suggests that the abundant blessings of God upon Israel will lead to him being known throughout the nations and praise erupting from every corner. All the peoples will honour his name when they see the amazing harvests in Israel.

Second Reading (Romans 11:1-2a, 29-32)

Paul reassures his readers that what he has been saying in no way implies God’s rejection of the Jewish people. It is true that their general negative response to the Gospel has opened the door for Gentiles but it must be remembered that both divisions of the human family have been disobedient but both have also been shown mercy.

Gospel (Matthew 15:[10-20], 21-28)

Concerning the distinctive Jewish food laws, Jesus emphasizes that true defilement originates in the sinful heart rather than from food taken into the mouth. Then he moves into Gentile territory where a local woman calls out to him to have mercy on her demon-possessed daughter. At first Jesus declines because, as he tells the disciples, he has been sent only to the Jewish people. But when he perceives her persistent faith he puts all that aside and heals her daughter.

CONNECTION SUGGESTIONS

• The inclusion of the Gentiles in the plan of God
• The equality of Jew and Gentile in the kingdom of God
• Mercy (Grace) trumps disobedience
• The heart of the matter is a matter of the heart

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Readings for November 27, 2016 Year A First Sunday of Advent

Please see How to Use Lection Connection

First Reading and Psalm

  • Isaiah 2:1-5
  • Psalm 122

Second Reading

  • Romans 13:11-14

Gospel

  • Matthew 24:36-44

Full lections can be read here.

Based on the Readings as Set

Isaiah sees a time when Jerusalem, as the location of the temple, will be exalted and attract the nations eager to learn the ways of God as his word issues forth from its precincts. The LORD shall act as judge between the nations, resulting in an everlasting and universal peace. The prophet then urges his readers to “walk in the light of the LORD.” The Psalmist exults in the joy of finding himself in the house of YAHWEH and within the walls of Jerusalem. Here is the very centre of divine worship and the place of kingly judgment. He ends with an exhortation to pray for its peace. St. Paul reminds the Christians at Rome that as the night is almost over they should cast off the works of darkness and live as in the day. Which means clothing oneself with Jesus and casting off the works of the flesh. In the Gospel Jesus deals with his second coming, how no one except the Father knows the hour. He likens it to the days of Noah when judgment took away those not ready and left behind the faithful who were saved on the ark. We are to live each moment as if it was the expected hour, living as we should be living and therefore ready to greet the Son of Man.

As Introductions

Old Testament

Isaiah sees a time when Jerusalem, as the location of the temple, will be exalted and attract the nations eager to learn the ways of God as his word issues forth from its precincts. The LORD shall act as judge between the nations, resulting in an everlasting and universal peace. The prophet then urges his readers to “walk in the light of the LORD.”

Psalm

The Psalmist exults in the joy of finding himself in the house of YAHWEH and within the walls of Jerusalem. Here is the very centre of divine worship and the place of kingly judgment. He ends with an exhortation to pray for its peace.

New Testament

St. Paul reminds the Christians at Rome that as the night is almost over they should cast off the works of darkness and live as in the day. Which means clothing oneself with Jesus and casting off the works of the flesh.

Gospel

In the Gospel Jesus deals with his second coming, how no one except the Father knows the hour. He likens it to the days of Noah when judgment took away those not ready and left behind the faithful who were saved on the ark. We are to live each moment as if it was the expected hour, living as we should be living and therefore ready to greet the Son of Man.

 

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Readings for November 20, 2016 The Reign of Christ Year C Proper 29 (34) & Thanksgiving Day (U.S.)

Please see How to Use Lection Connection

Readings for Thanksgiving Day (U.S) are below.

The Reign of Christ Proper 29(34)

First Reading and Psalm

  • Jeremiah 23:1-6
  • Luke 1:68-79

First Reading and Alternative Psalm

  • Jeremiah 23:1-6
  • Psalm 46

Second Reading

  • Colossians 1:11-20

Gospel

  • Luke 23:33-43

Full lections can be read here.

Based on the Readings as Set

Through the prophet Jeremiah YAHWEH rebukes the false shepherds who have ruined his people and promises to gather them himself from the places to which they have been scattered. New faithful shepherds will be appointed and they will be ruled over by a “Righteous Branch” from the house of David whose name will remind YAHWEH’s people that a right relationship with him is grounded, not in them, but in him. Zacharias, the father of John the Baptist, announces in an excited burst of poetry that his infant son will be the long-awaited prophet who prepares the way of the Lord. The light of Israel’s great deliverance from the darkness of her own sins and all her enemies is now beginning to dawn. St. Paul prays that the Colossians will experience God’s strength to endure and give thanks to him for delivering them from the power of darkness by granting them “a share in the inheritance of the saints in light”. This redemption has come by the reconciliation of all things to himself through his beloved Son on the cross, a Son in whom his own fullness dwells. St. Luke records Jesus’ words of forgiveness from the cross while the leaders of the people and the soldiers scoffed at his seeming inability to save himself. Meanwhile Jesus majestically grants entrance into Paradise to the repentant thief. The irony is exquisite.

As Introductions

Old Testament

Through the prophet Jeremiah YAHWEH rebukes the false shepherds who have ruined his people and promises to gather them himself from the places to which they have been scattered. New faithful shepherds will be appointed and they will be ruled over by a “Righteous Branch” from the house of David whose name will remind YAHWEH’s people that a right relationship with him is grounded, not in them, but in him.

Psalm

Zacharias, the father of John the Baptist, announces in an excited burst of poetry that his infant son will be the long-awaited prophet who prepares the way of the Lord. The light of Israel’s great deliverance from the darkness of her own sins and all her enemies is now beginning to dawn.

New Testament

St. Paul prays that the Colossians will experience God’s strength to endure and give thanks to him for delivering them from the power of darkness by granting them “a share in the inheritance of the saints in light”. This redemption has come by the reconciliation of all things to himself through his beloved Son on the cross, a Son in whom his own fullness dwells.

Gospel

St. Luke records Jesus’ words of forgiveness from the cross while the leaders of the people and the soldiers scoffed at his seeming inability to save himself. Meanwhile Jesus majestically grants entrance into Paradise to the repentant thief. The irony is exquisite.

Based on the Alternative Readings

Through the prophet Jeremiah YAHWEH rebukes the false shepherds who have ruined his people and promises to gather them himself from the places to which they have been scattered. New faithful shepherds will be appointed and they will be ruled over by a “Righteous Branch” from the house of David whose name will remind YAHWEH’s people that a right relationship with him is grounded, not in them, but in him. The Psalmist depicts YAHWEH’s majestic rule in the midst of the chaos and trouble of life. He provides joy like a river flowing through the city of God as the morning dawns. St. Paul prays that the Colossians will experience God’s strength to endure and give thanks to him for delivering them from the power of darkness by granting them “a share in the inheritance of the saints in light”. This redemption has come by the reconciliation of all things to himself through his beloved Son on the cross, a Son in whom his own fullness dwells. St. Luke records Jesus’ words of forgiveness from the cross while the leaders of the people and the soldiers scoff at his seeming inability to save himself. Meanwhile Jesus majestically grants entrance into Paradise to the repentant thief. The irony is exquisite.

As Introductions

Old Testament

Through the prophet Jeremiah YAHWEH rebukes the false shepherds who have ruined his people and promises to gather them himself from the places to which they have been scattered. New faithful shepherds will be appointed and they will be ruled over by a “Righteous Branch” from the house of David whose name will remind YAHWEH’s people that a right relationship with him is grounded, not in them, but in him.

Psalm

The Psalmist depicts YAHWEH’s majestic rule in the midst of the chaos and trouble of life. He provides joy like a river flowing through the city of God as the morning dawns.

New Testament

St. Paul prays that the Colossians will experience God’s strength to endure and give thanks to him for delivering them from the power of darkness by granting them “a share in the inheritance of the saints in light”. This redemption has come by the reconciliation of all things to himself through his beloved Son on the cross, a Son in whom his own fullness dwells.

Gospel

St. Luke records Jesus’ words of forgiveness from the cross while the leaders of the people and the soldiers scoffed at his seeming inability to save himself. Meanwhile Jesus majestically grants entrance into Paradise to the repentant thief. The irony is exquisite.

Thanksgiving Day (U.S.) November 24, 2016

First Reading and Psalm

  • Deuteronomy 26:1-11
  • Psalm 100

Second Reading

  • Philippians 4:4-9

Gospel

  • John 6:25-35

Full lections can be read here.

Connection Based on the Readings as Set

Moses commands the Israelites, once they have arrived in the Promised Land, to bring its first fruits as an offering to YAHWEH while reciting the story of their deliverance from Egypt. In this way the harvest is to be celebrated as part of God’s abundant provision for his people. The Psalm could well be taken as providing a liturgical text for such a celebration, calling as it does for exuberant praise and thanksgiving for all of YAHWEH’s love and faithfulness. Paul begins the Philippians reading with another call to “Rejoice” while encouraging his readers to turn to God in prayer and thanksgiving instead of worrying about anything. This leads to a profound peace that can be maintained by focusing our thoughts and actions on all things good. In the Gospel Jesus is questioned by people who are focused on the wrong thing: food that perishes. In spite of their newly-filled bellies, they demand of Jesus a sign like the bread from heaven Moses gave their ancestors. In response Jesus claims to be the Father’s gift of “true bread from heaven”, the “bread of life”. “Whoever comes to me will never be hungry and whoever believes in me will never thirst”. Clearly, he is the focus we should seek and the gift for which we should give thanks.

As Introductions

Old Testament

Moses commands the Israelites, once they have arrived in the Promised Land, to bring its first fruits as an offering to YAHWEH while reciting the story of their deliverance from Egypt. In this way the harvest is to be celebrated as part of God’s abundant provision for his people.

Psalm

The Psalm could well be taken as providing a liturgical text for such a celebration, calling as it does for exuberant praise and thanksgiving for all of YAHWEH’s love and faithfulness.

New Testament

Paul begins the Philippians reading with another call to “Rejoice” while encouraging his readers to turn to God in prayer and thanksgiving instead of worrying about anything. This leads to a profound peace that can be maintained by focusing our thoughts and actions on all things good.

Gospel

In the Gospel Jesus is questioned by people who are focused on the wrong thing: food that perishes. In spite of their newly-filled bellies, they demand of Jesus a sign like the bread from heaven Moses gave their ancestors. In response Jesus claims to be the Father’s gift of “true bread from heaven”, the “bread of life”. “Whoever comes to me will never be hungry and whoever believes in me will never thirst”. Clearly, he is the focus we should seek and the gift for which we should give thanks.

Posted on

Readings for November 20, 2016 The Reign of Christ Year C Proper 29 (34) & Thanksgiving Day (U.S.)

Please see How to Use Lection Connection

Readings for Thanksgiving Day (U.S) are below.

The Reign of Christ Proper 29(34)

First Reading and Psalm

  • Jeremiah 23:1-6
  • Luke 1:68-79

First Reading and Alternative Psalm

  • Jeremiah 23:1-6
  • Psalm 46

Second Reading

  • Colossians 1:11-20

Gospel

  • Luke 23:33-43

Full lections can be read here.

Based on the Readings as Set

Through the prophet Jeremiah YAHWEH rebukes the false shepherds who have ruined his people and promises to gather them himself from the places to which they have been scattered. New faithful shepherds will be appointed and they will be ruled over by a “Righteous Branch” from the house of David whose name will remind YAHWEH’s people that a right relationship with him is grounded, not in them, but in him. Zacharias, the father of John the Baptist, announces in an excited burst of poetry that his infant son will be the long-awaited prophet who prepares the way of the Lord. The light of Israel’s great deliverance from the darkness of her own sins and all her enemies is now beginning to dawn. St. Paul prays that the Colossians will experience God’s strength to endure and give thanks to him for delivering them from the power of darkness by granting them “a share in the inheritance of the saints in light”. This redemption has come by the reconciliation of all things to himself through his beloved Son on the cross, a Son in whom his own fullness dwells. St. Luke records Jesus’ words of forgiveness from the cross while the leaders of the people and the soldiers scoffed at his seeming inability to save himself. Meanwhile Jesus majestically grants entrance into Paradise to the repentant thief. The irony is exquisite.

As Introductions

Old Testament

Through the prophet Jeremiah YAHWEH rebukes the false shepherds who have ruined his people and promises to gather them himself from the places to which they have been scattered. New faithful shepherds will be appointed and they will be ruled over by a “Righteous Branch” from the house of David whose name will remind YAHWEH’s people that a right relationship with him is grounded, not in them, but in him.

Psalm

Zacharias, the father of John the Baptist, announces in an excited burst of poetry that his infant son will be the long-awaited prophet who prepares the way of the Lord. The light of Israel’s great deliverance from the darkness of her own sins and all her enemies is now beginning to dawn.

New Testament

St. Paul prays that the Colossians will experience God’s strength to endure and give thanks to him for delivering them from the power of darkness by granting them “a share in the inheritance of the saints in light”. This redemption has come by the reconciliation of all things to himself through his beloved Son on the cross, a Son in whom his own fullness dwells.

Gospel

St. Luke records Jesus’ words of forgiveness from the cross while the leaders of the people and the soldiers scoffed at his seeming inability to save himself. Meanwhile Jesus majestically grants entrance into Paradise to the repentant thief. The irony is exquisite.

Based on the Alternative Readings

Through the prophet Jeremiah YAHWEH rebukes the false shepherds who have ruined his people and promises to gather them himself from the places to which they have been scattered. New faithful shepherds will be appointed and they will be ruled over by a “Righteous Branch” from the house of David whose name will remind YAHWEH’s people that a right relationship with him is grounded, not in them, but in him. The Psalmist depicts YAHWEH’s majestic rule in the midst of the chaos and trouble of life. He provides joy like a river flowing through the city of God as the morning dawns. St. Paul prays that the Colossians will experience God’s strength to endure and give thanks to him for delivering them from the power of darkness by granting them “a share in the inheritance of the saints in light”. This redemption has come by the reconciliation of all things to himself through his beloved Son on the cross, a Son in whom his own fullness dwells. St. Luke records Jesus’ words of forgiveness from the cross while the leaders of the people and the soldiers scoff at his seeming inability to save himself. Meanwhile Jesus majestically grants entrance into Paradise to the repentant thief. The irony is exquisite.

As Introductions

Old Testament

Through the prophet Jeremiah YAHWEH rebukes the false shepherds who have ruined his people and promises to gather them himself from the places to which they have been scattered. New faithful shepherds will be appointed and they will be ruled over by a “Righteous Branch” from the house of David whose name will remind YAHWEH’s people that a right relationship with him is grounded, not in them, but in him.

Psalm

The Psalmist depicts YAHWEH’s majestic rule in the midst of the chaos and trouble of life. He provides joy like a river flowing through the city of God as the morning dawns.

New Testament

St. Paul prays that the Colossians will experience God’s strength to endure and give thanks to him for delivering them from the power of darkness by granting them “a share in the inheritance of the saints in light”. This redemption has come by the reconciliation of all things to himself through his beloved Son on the cross, a Son in whom his own fullness dwells.

Gospel

St. Luke records Jesus’ words of forgiveness from the cross while the leaders of the people and the soldiers scoffed at his seeming inability to save himself. Meanwhile Jesus majestically grants entrance into Paradise to the repentant thief. The irony is exquisite.

Thanksgiving Day (U.S.) November 24, 2016

First Reading and Psalm

  • Deuteronomy 26:1-11
  • Psalm 100

Second Reading

  • Philippians 4:4-9

Gospel

  • John 6:25-35

Full lections can be read here.

Connection Based on the Readings as Set

Moses commands the Israelites, once they have arrived in the Promised Land, to bring its first fruits as an offering to YAHWEH while reciting the story of their deliverance from Egypt. In this way the harvest is to be celebrated as part of God’s abundant provision for his people. The Psalm could well be taken as providing a liturgical text for such a celebration, calling as it does for exuberant praise and thanksgiving for all of YAHWEH’s love and faithfulness. Paul begins the Philippians reading with another call to “Rejoice” while encouraging his readers to turn to God in prayer and thanksgiving instead of worrying about anything. This leads to a profound peace that can be maintained by focusing our thoughts and actions on all things good. In the Gospel Jesus is questioned by people who are focused on the wrong thing: food that perishes. In spite of their newly-filled bellies, they demand of Jesus a sign like the bread from heaven Moses gave their ancestors. In response Jesus claims to be the Father’s gift of “true bread from heaven”, the “bread of life”. “Whoever comes to me will never be hungry and whoever believes in me will never thirst”. Clearly, he is the focus we should seek and the gift for which we should give thanks.

As Introductions

Old Testament

Moses commands the Israelites, once they have arrived in the Promised Land, to bring its first fruits as an offering to YAHWEH while reciting the story of their deliverance from Egypt. In this way the harvest is to be celebrated as part of God’s abundant provision for his people.

Psalm

The Psalm could well be taken as providing a liturgical text for such a celebration, calling as it does for exuberant praise and thanksgiving for all of YAHWEH’s love and faithfulness.

New Testament

Paul begins the Philippians reading with another call to “Rejoice” while encouraging his readers to turn to God in prayer and thanksgiving instead of worrying about anything. This leads to a profound peace that can be maintained by focusing our thoughts and actions on all things good.

Gospel

In the Gospel Jesus is questioned by people who are focused on the wrong thing: food that perishes. In spite of their newly-filled bellies, they demand of Jesus a sign like the bread from heaven Moses gave their ancestors. In response Jesus claims to be the Father’s gift of “true bread from heaven”, the “bread of life”. “Whoever comes to me will never be hungry and whoever believes in me will never thirst”. Clearly, he is the focus we should seek and the gift for which we should give thanks.

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Readings for November 13, 2016 Year C Proper 28 (33)

Please see How to Use Lection Connection

First Reading and Psalm

  • Isaiah 65:17-25
  • Isaiah 12

Alternative First Reading and Psalm

  • Malachi 4:1-2a
  • Psalm 98

Second Reading

  • 2 Thessalonians 3:6-13

Gospel

  • Luke 21:5-19

Full lections can be read here.

Based on the Readings as Set

Through the prophet Isaiah YAHWEH sets out his coming salvation for Israel in terms of a new heaven and a new earth. It will be so blessed that there will be only joy and delight, no weeping or mourning. No life will be cut off before its time and YAHWEH will always be close at hand. Even the wolf and the lamb will feed together. The Psalm, taken from Isaiah as well, celebrates the coming day of YAHWEH’s salvation before the nations with thanksgiving and joy. He will be powerfully amongst them at last. In the light of the coming of Jesus, St. Paul urges the Thessalonians to not be idle or to suffer idlers. It is the time to work, even to settle down and not be a burden to others. Jesus tells his disciples that terrible times lie ahead for Jerusalem but even that is not the end. False messiahs will arise in a time of great worldwide turmoil and conflict but they are not to be followed. Before all this his followers will be severely persecuted but Jesus will be with them and no ultimate harm will come to them if they are faithful.

As Introductions

Old Testament

Through the prophet Isaiah YAHWEH sets out his coming salvation for Israel in terms of a new heaven and a new earth. It will be so blessed that there will be only joy and delight, no weeping or mourning. No life will be cut off before its time and YAHWEH will always be close at hand. Even the wolf and the lamb will feed together.

Psalm

The Psalm, taken from Isaiah as well, celebrates the coming day of YAHWEH’s salvation before the nations with thanksgiving and joy. He will be powerfully amongst them at last.

New Testament

In the light of the coming of Jesus, St. Paul urges the Thessalonians to not be idle or to suffer idlers. It is the time to work, even to settle down and not be a burden to others.

Gospel

Jesus tells his disciples that terrible times lie ahead for Jerusalem but even that is not the end. False messiahs will arise in a time of great worldwide turmoil and conflict but they are not to be followed. Before all this his followers will be severely persecuted but Jesus will be with them and no ultimate harm will come to them if they are faithful.

Based on the Alternative Readings

The prophet Malachi uses the image of stubble burned in an oven to convey the awful reality of YAHWEH’s coming judgment upon those who persist in evil. On the other hand, those who honour him will experience restoration through the rising of the sun of righteousness. The Psalmist calls for exuberant celebration of the great power of YAHWEH as demonstrated in his decisive lifting up of Israel. The nations bear witness to this miracle and are urged to join in rejoicing along with nature itself. In the light of the coming of Jesus, St. Paul urges the Thessalonians to not be idle or to suffer idlers. It is the time to work, even to settle down and not be a burden to others. Jesus tells his disciples that terrible times lie ahead for Jerusalem but even that is not the end. False messiahs will arise in a time of great worldwide turmoil and conflict but they are not to be followed. Before all this his followers will be severely persecuted but Jesus will be with them and no ultimate harm will come to them if they are faithful.

As Introductions

Old Testament

The prophet Malachi uses the image of stubble burned in an oven to convey the awful reality of YAHWEH’s coming judgment upon those who persist in evil. On the other hand, those who honour him will experience restoration through the rising of the sun of righteousness.

Psalm

The Psalmist calls for exuberant celebration of the great power of YAHWEH as demonstrated in his decisive lifting up of Israel. The nations bear witness to this miracle and are urged to join in rejoicing along with nature itself.

New Testament

In the light of the coming of Jesus, St. Paul urges the Thessalonians to not be idle or to suffer idlers. It is the time to work, even to settle down and not be a burden to others.

Gospel

Jesus tells his disciples that terrible times lie ahead for Jerusalem but even that is not the end. False messiahs will arise in a time of great worldwide turmoil and conflict but they are not to be followed. Before all this his followers will be severely persecuted but Jesus will be with them and no ultimate harm will come to them if they are faithful.

 

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Readings for November 6, 2016 Year C Proper 27 (32)

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First Reading and Psalm

  • Haggai 1:15b-2:9
  • Psalm 145:1-5, 17-21

Second Reading

  • 2 Thessalonians 2:1-5, 13-17

Gospel

  • Luke 20:27-38

Alternative Psalm for above Readings

  • Psalm 98

Alternative First Reading and Psalm

  • Job 19:23-27a
  • Psalm 17:1-9

Full lections can be read here.

Connection Based on the Readings as Set

Haggai is given the word of YAHWEH for the people of Judah who have returned to the Holy Land from exile. They have found their temple in ruins and are assured that it will rise again. In fact its splendor will be greater than Solomon’s temple, filled with the wealth of the nations as YAHWEH continues to dwell among them. In the Psalm the nation is called to meditate on the unsurpassed splendor of YAHWEH who blesses the faithful and destroys the wicked. All flesh will someday come to worship him. To the church in Thessalonica, concerned about the second coming of Jesus and being gathered to him, St. Paul assures them that this glorious event still lies ahead of them. Present and future circumstances not withstanding, their current experience of the love and grace of God in Christ is the first fruit of this coming salvation. In the Gospel Luke tells of Jesus’ encounter with the Sadducees who tried to make belief in the resurrection seem ridiculous by telling the story of the widow who married seven brothers in succession. “Whose wife will she be in the resurrection?” they demand. In response Jesus affirms the resurrection but teaches that it is a reality that will gloriously transcend our experience of this world. He also argues that the Old Testament witnesses to the resurrection in its characterization of YAHWEH as the present God of the ancient patriarchs.

As Introductions

Old Testament

Haggai is given the word of YAHWEH for the people of Judah who have returned to the Holy Land from exile. They have found their temple in ruins and are assured that it will rise again. In fact its splendor will be greater than Solomon’s temple, filled with the wealth of the nations as YAHWEH continues to dwell among them.

Psalm

In the Psalm the nation is called to meditate on the unsurpassed splendor of YAHWEH who blesses the faithful and destroys the wicked. All flesh will someday come to worship him.

New Testament

To the church in Thessalonica, concerned about the second coming of Jesus and being gathered to him, St. Paul assures them that this glorious event still lies ahead of them. Present and future circumstances not withstanding, their current experience of the love and grace of God in Christ is the first fruit of this coming salvation.

Gospel

In the Gospel Luke tells of Jesus’ encounter with the Sadducees who tried to make belief in the resurrection seem ridiculous by telling the story of the widow who married seven brothers in succession. “Whose wife will she be in the resurrection?” they demand. In response Jesus affirms the resurrection but teaches that it is a reality that will gloriously transcend our experience of this world. He also argues that the Old Testament witnesses to the resurrection in its characterization of YAHWEH as the present God of the ancient patriarchs.

Connection Based on the Readings as Set but with Alternative Psalm

Haggai is given the word of YAHWEH for the people of Judah who have returned to the Holy Land from exile. They have found their temple in ruins and are assured that it will rise again. In fact its splendor will be greater than Solomon’s temple, filled with the wealth of the nations as YAHWEH continues to dwell among them. The Psalmist calls for exuberant celebration of the great power of YAHWEH as demonstrated in his decisive lifting up of Israel. The nations bear witness to this miracle and are urged to join in rejoicing along with nature itself. To the church in Thessalonica, concerned about the second coming of Jesus and being gathered to him, St. Paul assures them that this glorious event still lies ahead of them. Present and future circumstances not withstanding, their current experience of the love and grace of God in Christ is the first fruit of this coming great salvation. In the Gospel Luke tells of Jesus’ encounter with the Sadducees who tried to make belief in the resurrection seem ridiculous by telling the story of the widow who married seven brothers in succession. “Whose wife will she be in the resurrection?” they demand. In response Jesus affirms the resurrection but teaches that it is a reality that will powerfully transcend our experience of this world. He also argues that the Old Testament witnesses to the resurrection in its characterization of YAHWEH as still the God of the ancient patriarchs.

As Introductions

Old Testament

Haggai is given the word of YAHWEH for the people of Judah who have returned to the Holy Land from exile. They have found their temple in ruins and are assured that it will rise again. In fact its splendor will be greater than Solomon’s temple, filled with the wealth of the nations as YAHWEH continues to dwell among them.

Psalm

The Psalmist calls for exuberant celebration of the great power of YAHWEH as demonstrated in his decisive lifting up of Israel. The nations bear witness to this miracle and are urged to join in rejoicing along with nature itself.

New Testament

To the church in Thessalonica, concerned about the second coming of Jesus and being gathered to him, St. Paul assures them that this glorious event still lies ahead of them. Present and future circumstances not withstanding, their current experience of the love and grace of God in Christ is the first fruit of this coming great salvation.

Gospel

In the Gospel Luke tells of Jesus’ encounter with the Sadducees who tried to make belief in the resurrection seem ridiculous by telling the story of the widow who married seven brothers in succession. “Whose wife will she be in the resurrection?” they demand. In response Jesus affirms the resurrection but teaches that it is a reality that will gloriously transcend our experience of this world. He also argues that the Old Testament witnesses to the resurrection in its characterization of YAHWEH as the present God of the ancient patriarchs.

Connection Based on Alternative Readings

In this remarkable passage Job cries out for a pen so that his words can be recorded for posterity. In spite of his great suffering he is confident of his ultimate vindication and that in his own flesh he shall see God even long after he has died and his body destroyed. The Psalmist sees himself as a besieged innocent and cries out to YAHWEH for vindication. He is confident of being heard and ultimately finding refuge under the shadow of God’s wing. To the church in Thessalonica, concerned about the second coming of Jesus and being gathered to him, St. Paul assures them that this glorious event still lies ahead of them. Present and future circumstances not withstanding, their current experience of the love and grace of God in Christ is the first fruit of this coming great salvation. In the Gospel Luke tells of Jesus’ encounter with the Sadducees who tried to make belief in the resurrection seem ridiculous by telling the story of the widow who married seven brothers in succession. “Whose wife will she be in the resurrection?” they demand. In response Jesus affirms the resurrection but teaches that it is a reality that will powerfully transcend our experience of this world. He also argues that the Old Testament witnesses to the resurrection in its characterization of YAHWEH as still the God of the ancient patriarchs.

As Introductions

Old Testament

In this remarkable passage Job cries out for a pen so that his words can be recorded for posterity. In spite of his great suffering he is confident of his ultimate vindication and that in his own flesh he shall see God even long after he has died and his body destroyed.

Psalm

The Psalmist sees himself as a besieged innocent and cries out to YAHWEH for vindication. He is confident of being heard and ultimately finding refuge under the shadow of God’s wing.

New Testament

To the church in Thessalonica, concerned about the second coming of Jesus and being gathered to him, St. Paul assures them that this glorious event still lies ahead of them. Present and future circumstances not withstanding, their current experience of the love and grace of God in Christ is the first fruit of this coming great salvation.

Gospel

In the Gospel Luke tells of Jesus’ encounter with the Sadducees who tried to make belief in the resurrection seem ridiculous by telling the story of the widow who married seven brothers in succession. “Whose wife will she be in the resurrection?” they demand. In response Jesus affirms the resurrection but teaches that it is a reality that will gloriously transcend our experience of this world. He also argues that the Old Testament witnesses to the resurrection in its characterization of YAHWEH as the present God of the ancient patriarchs.