Posted on

Day of Pentecost, May 31, 2020

Please see How to Use Lection Connection.

Full lections can be read here.

 

Based on the Readings as Set

First Reading (Acts 2:1-21)

On the Day of Pentecost Jesus’ followers are filled with the Holy Spirit as he promised. Amidst the sound of a strong wind, tongues of fire appear upon them. They proclaim God’s power in the languages of many amazed pilgrims and Peter explains that the age to come has arrived.

Psalm (104:24-34, 35b)

The Psalmist celebrates the wisdom of the Lord in the creation and sustaining of all things, both animate and inanimate. He accomplishes this by means of his Spirit and the Psalmist responds with heartfelt praise.

Second Reading (1 Corinthians 12:3b-13)

Paul emphasizes that, while there is a wide variety of spiritual gifts, services, and activities, they all come from the one Lord and are for the common good. Just as our bodies are made up of very different parts, so the Spirit orders his gifts into a unified whole.

Gospel (John 20:19-23)

John relates the initial post-resurrection appearance of Jesus on Easter evening. The Lord first bestows peace upon his disciples and then shows them his hands and side. Finally, he breathes the Holy Spirit upon them and sends them out to continue his work of the forgiveness of sins.

 

CONNECTION SUGGESTIONS

  • The coming of the Holy Spirit marks the beginning of a (new) creation, ordering everything aright.
  • The Holy Spirit is given in order to enable and extend the Church’s witness to the Christ-event
  • The Holy Spirit is Christ-with-us and in us
  • The Holy Spirit continues the mission of the ascended Jesus

SCRIPTURE SENTENCE (BAS, Canada)

Come, Holy Spirit, fill the hearts of your faithful; and kindle in us the fire of your love.

COLLECT OF THE DAY (BAS, Canada)

Almighty and everliving God,
who fulfilled the promises of Easter
by sending us your Holy Spirit
and opening to every race and nation
the way of life eternal,
keep us in the unity of your Spirit,
that every tongue may tell of your glory;
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 (Numbers 11:24-30)

To spread the burden of leadership, the Lord bestows some of the Spirit Moses had been given on seventy elders. Moses is criticized when two elders not present begin to prophesy as well. He responds by saying he wishes all of God’s people were given the Spirit.

Psalm (104:24-34, 35b)

The Psalmist celebrates the wisdom of the Lord in the creation and sustaining of all things, both animate and inanimate. He accomplishes this by means of his Spirit and the Psalmist responds with heartfelt praise.

Second Reading (Acts 2:1-21)

On the Day of Pentecost Jesus’ followers are filled with the Holy Spirit as he promised. Amidst the sound of a strong wind, tongues of fire appear upon them. They proclaim God’s power in the languages of many amazed pilgrims and Peter explains that the age to come has arrived.

Gospel (John 7:37-39)

Jesus attends the Feast of the Tabernacles which usually involved the pouring of pure water on the Temple altar. There he invites anyone who thirsts to come to him and have rivers of living water flow out of their heart. John says that Jesus is referring to the Holy Spirit in each believer.

 

CONNECTION SUGGESTIONS

  • The coming of the Holy Spirit marks the beginning of a (new) creation
  • The Holy Spirit is given in order to enable the Church’s witness to the Christ-event
  • The Holy Spirit continues the mission of the ascended Jesus
  • The Holy Spirit more than makes up for the physical absence of Jesus

SCRIPTURE SENTENCE (BAS, Canada)

Come, Holy Spirit, fill the hearts of your faithful; and kindle in us the fire of your love.

COLLECT OF THE DAY (BAS, Canada)

Almighty and everliving God,
who fulfilled the promises of Easter
by sending us your Holy Spirit
and opening to every race and nation
the way of life eternal,
keep us in the unity of your Spirit,
that every tongue may tell of your glory;
through Jesus Christ our Lord,
who lives and reigns with you and the Holy Spirit, one God, now and for ever. AMEN

 

Posted on

Fourth Sunday after Pentecost, July 7, 2019, Proper 9, Year C

Please see How to Use Lection Connection

Full lections can be read here.

Based on the Readings as Set

First Reading (2 Kings 5:1-14)

A captive Israeli girl informs her master Naaman, commander of Aram’s army, that there is a prophet back home who can cure his leprosy. He finds Elisha who tells him to wash in the Jordan to be healed. At first he refuses, but his servants convince him to try and he is healed.

Psalm (30)

Because the Lord healed him in the past, the Psalmist invites others to join him in praise and thanksgiving. When he had been confident in his prosperity, adversity had brought him low. But Yahweh heard his cry and turned his mourning into joy.

Second Reading (Galatians 6:[1-6], 7-16)

Paul directs the Galatians to restore sinners among them with humility, keeping in mind their own weaknesses. In this attitude they are to care for one another, doing what is right in the Spirit. They are to boast only in the Cross of Christ, who gathers all peoples into a new creation.

Gospel (Luke 10:1-11, 16-20)

Jesus sends out seventy disciples into all the towns he is going to as his representatives and as agents of the incoming kingdom of God. They rejoice in their power over the demonic forces of Satan, but Jesus tells them that just being accepted in heaven is more important than even this.

CONNECTION SUGGESTIONS

  • There are varieties of healings but only one God
  • All of us represent the Lord to others
  • Using spiritual power with humility and care
  • A little humility goes a long way

Based on the Alternative Readings

First Reading (Isaiah 66:10-14)

Isaiah looks forward to a time when Jerusalem becomes the nurturing mother of God’s people. The prosperity of the nations shall be hers while her people are comforted. Then Israel will be glad and flourish and it will be known that her great God is surely with them.

Psalm (66:1-9)

The Psalmist calls the whole earth to praise the God of Israel who rescued her through the Red Sea and across the Jordan river. His power is without limit and his shaken adversaries humbly bow low before him in acknowledgement.

Second Reading (Galatians 6:[1-6], 7-16)

Paul directs the Galatians to restore sinners among them with humility, keeping in mind their own weaknesses. In this attitude they are to care for one another, doing what is right in the Spirit. They are to boast only in the Cross of Christ, who gathers all peoples into a new creation.

Gospel (Luke 10:1-11, 16-20)

Jesus sends out seventy disciples into all the towns he is going to as his representatives and as agents of the incoming kingdom of God. They rejoice in their power over the demonic forces of Satan, but Jesus tells them that just being accepted in heaven is more important than even this.

CONNECTION SUGGESTIONS

  • Our weaknesses and defeats offer opportunity for God’s power to be known
  • Using spiritual power with humility and care
  • A little humility goes a long way
  • God is in the business of putting things right

 

 

 

 

 

 

Posted on

Third Sunday after Pentecost, June 30, 2019, Proper 8, Year C

Please see How to Use Lection Connection

Full lections can be read here.

Based on the Readings as Set

First Reading (2 Kings 2:1-2, 6-14)

As Elijah nears the end of his life, young Elisha refuses to leave his side. After a chariot of fire takes the older man up into heaven, Elisha picks up Elijah’s mantle and inherits a double portion of his spirit. To cross the Jordan he, like Elijah, divides it with his mantle.

Psalm (77:1-2, 11-20)

The Psalmist cries out to the Lord to hear him in his hour of need. He gathers strength from remembering God’s mighty deeds of deliverance of Israel in the past as well as his great power displayed in creation.

Second Reading (Galatians 5:1, 13-25)

Paul emphasizes that Christian freedom is grounded in love and guided by the Holy Spirit. It is not the freedom to sin but to act in accordance with God’s law as the Spirit produces his fruit in our lives. This is life in the Spirit in contrast to life in the flesh.

Gospel (Luke 9:51-62)

As Jesus makes his way to Jerusalem for the last time he impresses a sense of urgency upon anyone who would dare to follow him. The advance of the kingdom has supreme priority over all other concerns, legitimate though they might be.

CONNECTION SUGGESTIONS

  • The way of the Lord is not easy, but it comes with his provision and enabling
  • Sometimes we need to get out of God’s way and let go
  • Through his Spirit, God will find a way to accomplish his purposes
  • Where Jesus leaves off, his Spirit continues

Based on the Alternative Readings

First Reading (1 Kings 19:15-16, 19-21)

As part of his encounter with the Lord at Sinai, Elijah is told to go to anoint new kings in Syria and Israel and then anoint Elisha as his successor. He encounters the latter plowing in the field and permits him to say a proper goodbye to his parents.

Psalm (16)

In seeking the protection of the Lord, the Psalmist reflects on the many benefits of trusting in him. He has avoided great sorrows as well as enjoying a pleasant life and heritage. He rests secure in the Lord’s presence, counsel and blessing.

Second Reading (Galatians 5:1, 13-25)

Paul emphasizes that Christian freedom is grounded in love and guided by the Holy Spirit. It is not the freedom to sin but to act in accordance with God’s law as the Spirit produces his fruit in our lives. This is life in the Spirit in contrast to life in the flesh.

Gospel (Luke 9:51-62)

As Jesus makes his way to Jerusalem for the last time he impresses a sense of urgency upon anyone who would dare to follow him. Time is running out and the advance of the kingdom has supreme priority over all other concerns, legitimate though they might be.

CONNECTION SUGGESTIONS

  • The kingdom comes with its priorities
  • The way of the Lord is not easy, but it comes with his provision and enabling
  • Through his Spirit, God will find a way to accomplish his purposes
  • Where Jesus leaves off, his Spirit continues

 

 

Posted on

Trinity Sunday, June 16, 2019, Year C

Please see How to Use Lection Connection

Full lections can be read here.

Based on the Readings as Set

First Reading (Proverbs 8:1-4, 22-31)

Wisdom calls humankind to be aware of its special place in creation. It was first before all other creatures and worked hand in hand with God in the process of creating the wonders of the whole earth. In these, and in humanity as well, it has reason to be delighted.

Psalm (8)

The Psalmist emphasizes that Yahweh’s name is majestic over the entire earth because of his great and awesome creation. But humankind does not suffer much in comparison, having been given dominion over that creation and crowned with glory and honor.

Second Reading (Romans 5:1-5)

Paul explains how, having been justified by faith, we are restored to God through Christ and can fully expect to share in his glory. We can even boast in that our suffering produces, in turn, endurance, character, and a sure hope, as God’s love is poured out through the Holy Spirit.

Gospel (John 16:12-15)

Jesus tells his disciples they are not ready to hear all that he needs to say to them. However, the coming Spirit will impart all truth to them, all that he has heard, including future events. In this he will glorify Jesus who, in turn, has been given everything of the Father’s.

CONNECTION SUGGESTIONS

  • The special place of humanity as the object of God’s attention
  • God extends his work through his Spirit and humankind, his special creation
  • The work of creation and new creation is wondrous indeed
  • The Father, the Son and the Holy Spirit cooperate in the work of redemption
  • The Holy Spirit does not work independently of the Father and the Son

 

 

Posted on

Day of Pentecost, June 9, 2019, Year C

Please see How to Use Lection Connection

Full lections can be read here.

Based on the Readings as Set

First Reading (Acts 2:1-21)

On the Day of Pentecost Jesus’ followers are filled with the Holy Spirit as he promised. Their room is overwhelmed by wind and fire and they begin to proclaim God’s power in the languages of astonished foreign pilgrims. Peter explains this as the arrival of the age to come.

Psalm (104:24-34, 35b)

The Psalmist celebrates the wisdom of the Lord in the creation and sustaining of all things, both animate and inanimate. He accomplishes this by means of his Spirit and the Psalmist responds with heartfelt praise.

Second Reading (Romans 8:14-17)

Paul identifies the Holy Spirit as the one who connects us so intimately to Christ that we share in being God’s children and heirs with him of the glory to come. Led by the Spirit, we are no longer slaves but adopted children, bearing the confirming inner witness of his Spirit.

Gospel (John 14:8-17 [25-27])

Just before he dies Jesus teaches that his works show that he and the Father are one. In fact, those who love him and follow him will actually do more, receiving all they ask in his name. Given the Spirit of truth to remind them of his teaching, they will enjoy his unique peace.

CONNECTION SUGGESTIONS

  • The coming of the Holy Spirit marks the beginning of a (new) creation
  • The Holy Spirit is given in order to enable and extend the Church’s witness to the Christ-event
  • The Holy Spirit is Christ-with-us and in us
  • The Holy Spirit continues the mission of the ascended Jesus
  • The Holy Spirit more than makes up for the physical absence of Jesus

Based on the Alternate Readings

First Reading (Genesis 11:1-9)

Not long after creation humans have one language but they make a prideful attempt to build a great tower in Babel in order to reach all the way to heaven. The Lord is upset and causes them to speak in different tongues to frustrate their efforts and scatter them over the earth.

Psalm (104:24-34, 35b)

The Psalmist celebrates the wisdom of the Lord in the creation and sustaining of all things, both animate and inanimate. He accomplishes this by means of his Spirit and the Psalmist responds with heartfelt praise.

Second Reading (Acts 2:1-21)

On the Day of Pentecost Jesus’ followers are filled with the Holy Spirit as he promised. Their room is overwhelmed by wind and fire and they begin to proclaim God’s power in the languages of astonished foreign pilgrims. Peter explains this as the arrival of the age to come.

Gospel (John 14:8-17 [25-27])

Just before he dies Jesus teaches that his works show that he and the Father are one. In fact, those who love him and follow him will actually do more, receiving all they ask in his name. Given the Spirit of truth to remind them of his teaching, they will enjoy his unique peace.

CONNECTION SUGGESTIONS

  • The coming of the Holy Spirit marks the beginning of a (new) creation
  • The Holy Spirit is given in order to enable the Church’s witness to the Christ-event
  • The Holy Spirit continues the mission of the ascended Jesus
  • The Holy Spirit more than makes up for the physical absence of Jesus
  • The disunity of humanity expressed in language, is no barrier to the Gospel

 

 

 

Posted on

Ascension Sunday, Year C, June 2, 2019

Please see How to Use Lection Connection

Full lections can be read here.

Based on the Readings as Set

First Reading (Acts 1:1-11)

After his resurrection Jesus teaches his disciples about the kingdom of God for forty days. Telling them to wait for the baptism in the Holy Spirit to enable them to be his witnesses to the ends of the earth, he is lifted up into a cloud with a promise that he will return in the same way.

Psalm (47)

Having subdued the whole earth through his people Israel, the Lord has ascended to his throne with thunderous acclamation. The nations are now included in his people, exalting him as their king and joining in joyful praise.

OR

Alternate Psalm (93)

The Lord is the everlasting and universal king of creation, his creation. He is far more majestic than even the awesome thunder of the heavens or the crashing waves of the sea. His laws are sure and his house is holy.

Second Reading (Ephesians 1:15-23)

Having heard of the faith and love of the Ephesians, Paul gives thanks and prays that they will know the rich hope to which they are called. God, whose power raised Jesus from the dead and seated him on high over all other authorities, will do this. He is the head of his body, the church.

Gospel (Luke 24:44-53)

In his last resurrection appearance Jesus shows his disciples how the Scriptures predicted his suffering and rising. Witnesses to this, they are to proclaim repentance and forgiveness in his name even to the ends of the earth. With that he blesses them and ascends into heaven.

CONNECTION SUGGESTIONS

  • The ascension of Jesus to the Father marks the end of his earthly ministry and the beginning of his ministry extended through the church
  • The ascension of Jesus reveals his true position as the authoritative Son of God
  • Jesus’ followers are to carry the gospel of his kingdom to all the earth and all its inhabitants
  • Jesus ascends to the place of God as universal king over all the nations

 

 

 

Posted on

Baptism of the Lord, January 13, 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 43:1-7)

After informing Israel that her exile was the result of disobedience, Isaiah now reassures her she will pass through these menacing waters because the Lord has created and redeemed her. Giving the nations in exchange, he will gather home her offspring, all those called by his name.

Psalm (29)

The Psalmist calls all heavenly beings to worship Yahweh for his glory and strength, demonstrated by his voice shaking the very earth. All in his temple cry “Glory!” to the eternal king who sits above the flood. May he bless his people with strength and peace.

Second Reading (Acts 8:14-17)

The Apostles in Jerusalem hear that the Word of God had been accepted outside of the Holy Land in Samaria. They send Peter and John to this group who had only been baptized in water and when the Apostles lay hands upon them, they receive the Holy Spirit for the first time.

Gospel (Luke 3:15-17, 21-22)

John the Baptist raises expectations in the people that he might be the Messiah, but he claims that a much greater one is coming who will baptize them with the Holy Spirit and with fire. Upon Jesus himself being baptized, a heavenly voice proclaims him as the beloved Son of God.

CONNECTION SUGGESTIONS

  • The waters of baptism are both disturbing and assuring
  • Jesus identifies with the historical experience of Israel
  • What Jesus brings overflows the expectations of Israel
  • The God of all creation has acted definitively in the arrival of the Christ
  • Christian baptism has both inner and outer dimensions

 

Posted on

Last Sunday after Pentecost (Christ the King), Nov. 25, 2018, Proper 29, Year B

Lection Connection for US Thanksgiving 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 (2 Samuel 23:1-7)

David’s last words acknowledge that all of his greatness as a just ruler is due to the Lord. Marvelling that the Lord has made an everlasting covenant with him, he is assured of divine help to further his goals, unlike the godless who will inevitably come to naught.

Psalm (132:1-12, [13-18])

A prayer for the son of David, this Psalm remembers David’s desire to build a house for God and God’s promise to build a house for David, that is, a descendant of his on Israel’s throne forever. The Lord lives in Zion, his chosen city, blessing it with salvation and shaming its enemies.

Second Reading (Revelation 1:4b-8)

Writing to the seven churches of Asia, John blesses them in the name of Christ, the Alpha and Omega, who rules over all earthly kings. He loves us, and his blood has freed us from our sins, making us a kingdom of priests. Every eye shall see him when he comes to judge the earth.

Gospel (John 18:33-37)

Pilate asks Jesus if he is the king of the Jews and Jesus goes on to explain that he is a king but his kingdom is not of this world. If it was, his followers would be fighting to free him. As it is, he has come to testify to the truth and everyone who belongs to the truth will listen to him.

CONNECTION SUGGESTIONS

  • The eternal rule of Christ fulfills God’s covenant promise to David
  • The reign of Christ is continuous with earthly rule but transcends it as well
  • Earthly rulers are answerable to Christ and subject to his Judgment
  • The king of all the earth has subjected himself to it, in order to save it

Based on the Alternative Readings

First Reading (Daniel 7:9-10, 13-14)

In his vision, Daniel sees the Ancient of Days amidst myriads of attendants ascending his fiery throne to sit in judgment. He also sees a human figure like a “Son of Man” coming on the clouds to be given dominion over all peoples and nations in a kingship that endures forever.

Psalm (93)

The Psalmist depicts the Lord as King, with spectacular robes and great strength. He has made the world secure and established his throne. The waters lift their voice to one even mightier than themselves. His testimonies are sure and his house is beautified with holiness forever.

Second Reading (Revelation 1:4b-8)

Writing to the seven churches of Asia, John blesses them in the name of Christ, the Alpha and Omega, who rules over all earthly kings. He loves us, and his blood has freed us from our sins, making us a kingdom of priests. Every eye shall see him when he comes to judge the earth.

Gospel (John 18:33-37)

Pilate asks Jesus if he is the king of the Jews and Jesus goes on to explain that he is a king but his kingdom is not of this world. If it was, his followers would be fighting to free him. As it is, he has come to testify to the truth and everyone who belongs to the truth will listen to him.

CONNECTION SUGGESTIONS

  • The reign of Christ is continuous with earthly rule but transcends it as well
  • Earthly rulers are answerable to Christ and subject to his Judgment
  • The king of all the earth has subjected himself to it, in order to save it
  • The Christian can rest secure in the reign of Christ over all other powers

 

 

 

 

 

Posted on

Twenty-Fourth Sunday after Pentecost, November 4, 2018, Proper 26, Year B

Lection Connection for All Saints’ 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 (Ruth 1:1-18)

Before there were kings in Israel, a widow named Naomi, finding herself bereft of husband and sons in a foreign country, decides to return home to Bethlehem in Judah. Her daughter-in-law Ruth insists on going and staying with her, even adopting her God.

  Psalm (146)

The Psalmist will praise the Lord all his days because, unlike human beings, he is not changeable and will always keep his promises. He provides justice for the oppressed, reversing their plight, while watching over strangers, widows and orphans.

Second Reading (Hebrews 9:11-14)

The writer makes it clear that the blood of Jesus our high priest was offered as a once for all sacrifice in the heavenly tabernacle. Himself without sin, he was able to cleanse our consciences from futile works, much more than any earthly sacrifices could ever do.

Gospel (Mark 12:28-34)

A scribe agrees with Jesus who holds the first commandment to be to love God with the totality of one’s being and the second to be to love one’s neighbour as oneself. Jesus tells him that he is close to the kingdom of God. His wisdom finally quieted his accusers.

CONNECTION SUGGESTIONS

  • Even the foreigner is our neighbor
  • The Lord cares especially for those in need (and so should we)
  • The Lord supplies what we need to come to him
  • Making God our first priority sets other things in proper order

Based on the Alternative Readings

First Reading (Deuteronomy 6:1-9)

As part of his farewell address, Moses tells the people of Israel that the laws he has given them are for their own welfare, enabling them to prosper greatly in the Land as the Lord had promised. They must love and obey him with the totality of their beings.

Psalm (119:1-8)

The Psalmist longs to keep the Lord’s commandments by learning them and fixing his attention upon them with the totality of his being. He knows that they that do so shall be kept happy and blameless, with a right to expect God’s assistance.

Second Reading (Hebrews 9:11-14)

The writer makes it clear that the blood of Jesus our high priest was offered as a once for all sacrifice in the heavenly tabernacle. Himself without sin, he was able to cleanse our consciences from futile works, much more than any earthly sacrifices could ever do.

Gospel (Mark 12:28-34)

A scribe agrees with Jesus who holds the first commandment to be to love God with the totality of one’s being and the second to be to love one’s neighbour as oneself. Jesus tells him that he is close to the kingdom of God. His wisdom finally quieted his accusers.

CONNECTION SUGGESTIONS

  • The Lord supplies what we need to come to him
  • Making God our first priority sets other things in their proper order
  • The Lord demands the totality of our beings
  • Following the laws of God leads to human flourishing

 

 

Posted on

Twenty-Third Sunday after Pentecost, October 28, 2018, Proper 25, Year B

Please see How to Use Lection Connection

Full lections can be read here.

Based on the Readings as Set

First Reading (Job 42:1-6, 10-17)

Realizing his inadequacy in comparison to the Lord, Job admits his presumption and repents. The Lord more than restores his wealth, friends, and children as comfort for his suffering. His beautiful daughters inherit with his sons when he dies in ripe old age.

 Psalm (34:1-8, [19-22])

The Psalmist calls for the Lord to be blessed and exalted because he will always save those who look to him. His angels protect them, and, though the righteous one goes through affliction, none of his bones will be broken. Evil and death await the wicked.

Second Reading (Hebrews 7:23-28)

The writer of Hebrews details the superiority of Jesus’ forever high priesthood. For all time he is able to save those who approach God through him. His sacrifice of himself, as the promised Son made perfect forever, is once for all, and for all time.

Gospel (Mark 10:46-52)

The disciples try to keep blind Bartimaeus from bothering Jesus, but he hears him anyway and calls him over. Naturally the man wants to see, and Jesus honours his faith by restoring his sight. As a result of his healing he immediately follows Jesus.

CONNECTION SUGGESTIONS

  • We are not promised a life free from trouble, but we are promised that God will see us through to deliverance
  • God is in the restoration business for those who approach him
  • Whatever losses we endure are eclipsed by far by what we receive when we remain faithful to Jesus
  • Jesus is not aloof from our need, being himself human

Based on the Alternative Readings

First Reading (Jeremiah 31:7-9)

As a result of their pleas, the Lord promises to bring the remnant of his people back to the Land. Although now scattered widely in exile, as their Father he will lead them all straight home without stumbling, including the blind, the lame and the pregnant.

Psalm (126)

Reflecting on those blessed occasions when the Lord had restored Israel’s fortunes in the past, the Psalmist calls upon him once again to act in like manner. Although his people have sown with tears he is confident that they shall reap in joy under the Lord’s hand.

Second Reading (Hebrews 7:23-28)

The writer of Hebrews details the superiority of Jesus’ forever high priesthood. For all time he is able to save those who approach God through him. His sacrifice of himself, as the promised Son made perfect forever, is once for all, and for all time.

Gospel (Mark 10:46-52)

The disciples try to keep blind Bartimaeus from bothering Jesus, but he hears him anyway and calls him over. Naturally the man wants to see, and Jesus honours his faith by restoring his sight. As a result of his healing he immediately follows Jesus.

CONNECTION SUGGESTIONS

  • We are not promised a life free from trouble, but we are promised that God will see us through to deliverance
  • Those who call out to the Lord may be sure that he will respond
  • God is in the restoration business for those who approach him
  • Jesus is not aloof from our need, being himself human