Please see How to Use Lection Connection
Full lections can be read here.
Based on the Readings as Set
First Reading (Acts 16:9-15)
In response to a vision, Paul and the missionary party, now including Luke, make their way to Philippi, a city in Macedonia. Lydia, a God-fearing Gentile businesswoman, believes Paul’s message concerning Jesus and is converted. She then invites the group to stay at her home.
Psalm (67)
The Psalmist suggests that the abundant blessings of God upon his people 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 the land of Israel.
Second Reading (Revelation 21:10, 22-22:5)
John sees the New Jerusalem in its perfect purity, inhabited by the redeemed of all the nations. Constantly lighted solely by the very Presence of God and the Lamb, through its streets flows the river of life. It waters the tree of life with its leaves for the healing of the nations.
Gospel (John 14:23-29)
The night before he died Jesus tells his disciples that those who truly love him will keep his word, a word that is also the Father’s. He promises them the Holy Spirit to help them in this and gives them his own unique peace to comfort them in his absence as they trust in his return.
CONNECTION SUGGESTIONS
- The nations will be an essential part of what God has in store for Israel and Jerusalem
- The word of God is powerful, able to bring new life
- God/Jesus will direct the mission of his church
- What happens in Jerusalem does not stay in Jerusalem
Based on the Alternative Gospel
First Reading (Acts 16:9-15)
In response to a vision, Paul and the missionary party, now including Luke, make their way to Philippi, a city in Macedonia. Lydia, a God-fearing Gentile businesswoman, believes Paul’s message concerning Jesus and is converted. She then invites the group to stay at her home.
Psalm (67)
The Psalmist suggests that the abundant blessings of God upon his people 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 the land of Israel.
Second Reading (Revelation 21:10, 22-22:5)
John sees the New Jerusalem in its perfect purity, inhabited by the redeemed of all the nations. Constantly lighted soley by the very Presence of God and the Lamb, through its streets flows the river of life. It waters the tree of life with its leaves for the healing of the nations.
Gospel (John 5:1-9)
Once, while Jesus is in Jerusalem on a sabbath for a Jewish feast, he encounters a long-term invalid. Because of his infirmity and a lack of assistance, he had been unable to benefit from some local healing waters. With a word Jesus heals him and he immediately begins to walk.
CONNECTION SUGGESTIONS
- The nations will be an essential part of what God has in store for Israel and Jerusalem
- The true waters of healing are provided by our Saviour
- The word of God is powerful, able to bring new life
- What happens in Jerusalem does not stay in Jerusalem