Lection Connection for Ascension 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 (Acts 17:22-31)
Paul invites Athenians to turn to the “unknown God” whose altar he found in their city. This God, he proclaims, is Creator and sustainer of all, not a mere human-made idol. He has chosen a man to judge the whole world and raised him from the dead to prove it.
Psalm (66:8-20)
The Psalmist calls upon the nations to bless the God who has tested, sustained and delivered Israel. Consider as well, he says, what the has done for me in his steadfast love! He has heard my cry because I have not walked in iniquity.
Second Reading (1 Peter 3:13-22)
In dealing with the question of suffering for doing good, St. Peter points to Jesus, the perfectly good one who suffered and died for our sins. His resurrection assures his place at God’s right hand and serves as the basis of the salvation we enter through baptism.
Gospel (John 14:15-21)
Jesus makes it clear that those who truly love him will keep his commandments. Even though he will soon be departing this life, he will give all who obey him the Spirit of truth. The Spirit will enable them to have an ongoing intimacy with him and the Father.
CONNECTION SUGGESTIONS
- Those who claim to love God will seek to live by his laws
- The evidence for God and his truth is there for those willing to see and believe
- The resurrection of Jesus serves to authenticate his roles in the salvation of the world
- Suffering and death find their ultimate answer in the resurrection of Jesus
SENTENCE (BAS, Canada)
If you love me, you will keep my word, and my Father will love you, and we will come to you. See John 14.23
COLLECT OF THE DAY (BAS, Canada)
Merciful God,
you have prepared for those who love you
riches beyond imagination.
Pour into our hearts such love toward you,
that we, loving you above all things,
may obtain your promises,
which exceed all that we can desire;
through Jesus Christ our Lord,
who is alive and reigns with you and the Holy Spirit, one God, now and for ever. AMEN