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First Sunday of Advent, December 1, 2019, Year A

For Thanksgiving (US), see here.

Please see How to Use Lection Connection 

Full lections can be read here.

 

Based on the Readings as Set

First Reading (Isaiah 2:1-5)

Isaiah envisions the exaltation of Jerusalem and its temple, resulting in the nations being attracted to God’s word. The LORD will act as judge between the nations, resulting in an everlasting and universal peace. Israel is then urged to follow the beneficial way of God.

Psalm (Psalm 122)

The Psalmist joyfully anticipates going to the house of the Lord within the walls of Jerusalem. The eternal city is the very centre of divine worship and the place of kingly judgment. The Psalmist ends with an exhortation to pray for its peace.

Second Reading (Romans 13:11-14)

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. That means to live honourably, allowing Jesus to shape their conduct and turning away from the works of the flesh.

Gospel (Matthew 24:36-44)

Jesus likens the suddenness of his second coming to the days of Noah when judgment took away those who were not ready. When he comes, many will also be so taken in the midst of daily routines. We are to be ready for the Son of Man to arrive at any time.

CONNECTION SUGGESTIONS

  • The anticipation of the return of Christ should positively affect the way we live
  • Jesus will be coming as Judge of all the earth
  • God’s ways are always a light unto our path: follow them
  • The ways of the world are dark and destructive: the only truly effective antidote is to walk in the light of the Gospel
  • The return of Christ is but the dawning of the eternal Kingdom of God
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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