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Twenty-Second Sunday after Pentecost, October 21, 2018, Proper 24, Year B

Please see How to Use Lection Connection

Full lections can be read here.

Based on the Readings as Set

First Reading (Job 38:1-7, [34-41])

The Lord answers Job, accusing him of speaking without knowledge. He charges Job to be a man and answer this: Were you there when I laid the earth’s precise foundations? Have you given wisdom to humankind? Do you control the rain or feed the wild beasts?

Psalm (104:1-9, 24, 35c)

The Psalmist blesses the Lord for his supreme majesty and creative power in establishing the secure foundations of the earth. He covered it with a great flood, but it endured and he set lasting borders for its waters. His wisdom is seen in all his works.

Second Reading (Hebrews 5:1-10)

High priests are chosen from among mortals to represent them to God and to offer sacrifices for their sins. Christ was so chosen, Son of God and priest forever. Because of his obedience through suffering he became the source of salvation for all who obey him.

Gospel (Mark 10:35-45)

James and John ask Jesus for the most prominent places in his kingdom, but he replies that these are not his to give. He then uses the opportunity to teach that, to be great, his disciples must be slaves to all, just as he came to give his life a ransom for many.

CONNECTION SUGGESTIONS

  • The creator has taken great care with his creation, our environment
  • There is a great difference between God and man: his ways are different than ours
  • Presumption always gets us in trouble
  • A little humility goes a long way

OR

Based on the Alternative Readings

First Reading (Isaiah 53:4-12)

Isaiah depicts God’s innocent Servant as bearing the infirmities and sins of many, his very life as an offering for their sin, suffering death as a result. However, he will see light and find his place among the great because he was numbered among the transgressors.

Psalm (91:9-16)

The Psalmist encourages those who trust in the Lord to have a sure confidence that no harm will befall them. They will be kept safe by guardian angels and the Lord will answer their prayers. They will enjoy a long life and experience his salvation.

Second Reading (Hebrews 5:1-10)

High priests are chosen from among mortals to represent them to God and to offer sacrifices for their sins. Christ was so chosen, Son of God and priest forever. Because of his obedience through suffering he became the source of salvation for all who obey him.

Gospel (Mark 10:35-45)

James and John ask Jesus for the most prominent places in his kingdom, but he replies that these are not his to give. He then uses the opportunity to teach that, to be great, his disciples must be slaves to all, just as he came to give his life a ransom for many.

CONNECTION SUGGESTIONS

  • There is a great difference between God and man: his ways are different than ours
  • Presumption always gets us in trouble
  • Surely he will bear our sorrows and carry our diseases
  • Christ suffered and died for us

 

 

Posted on

Twenty-First Sunday after Pentecost, October 14, 2018, Proper 23, Year B

Please see How to Use Lection Connection

Full lections can be read here.

Based on the Readings as Set

First Reading (Job 23:1-9, 16-17)

Job complains that God’s hand is heavy upon him and he dares to enter the dwelling of the Almighty to get his answer. Even though God is elusive even there, Job’s innocence makes him bold even though he feels he would rather hide in his terror.

Psalm (22:1-15)

Encircled by enemies like raging beasts, the Psalmist cries out at in God’s seeming absence. His ancestors were saved, but he is but a despised worm. Although tempted to give up hope, he remembers that he has always successfully depended on the Lord.

Second Reading (Hebrews 4:12-16)

God’s Word is living and very sharp, penetrating into our hearts but Jesus is our great and sympathetic high priest from heaven. Like us, he has been fully tested but without sin. We can therefore boldly approach God through him for mercy and grace.

Gospel (Mark 10:17-31)

A rich man declines to give away all he possesses to follow Jesus and gain eternal life. Jesus points out how hard it is for the wealthy to enter the kingdom but with God anything is possible. Those who have given up much to follow Jesus shall be rewarded.

CONNECTION SUGGESTIONS

  • We can boldly approach our God
  • The divide between God and man is bridged by the God/man Jesus.
  • Possessions in this life may or may not be a sign of God’s blessing
  • Love of possessions runs counter to our spiritual health

Based on the Alternative Readings

First Reading (Amos 5:6-7, 10-15)

The prophet Amos threatens rich people who trample the poor and refuse to listen to reproof. They shall suffer devastation and never enjoy the fancy things that they own. Be sure that the Lord will only be with those who seek good and not evil.

Psalm (90:12-17)

The Psalmist pleads with the Lord to help his people be wise in the light of time’s fleeting passage. Long afflicted, they desperately need the Lord to turn back to them. They yearn for a time of blessing that makes their troubles fade in comparison.

Second Reading (Hebrews 4:12-16)

God’s Word is living and very sharp, penetrating into our hearts but Jesus is our great and sympathetic high priest from heaven. Like us, he has been fully tested but without sin. We can therefore boldly approach God through him for mercy and grace.

Gospel (Mark 10:17-31)

A rich man declines to give away all he possesses to follow Jesus and gain eternal life. Jesus points out how hard it is for the wealthy to enter the kingdom but with God anything is possible. Those who have given up much to follow Jesus shall be rewarded.

CONNECTION SUGGESTIONS

  • We can boldly approach our God
  • Possessions in this life may or may not be a sign of God’s blessing
  • Love of possessions runs counter to our spiritual health
  • True blessing is being with the Lord and not in riches

 

 

Posted on

Twentieth Sunday after Pentecost, October 7, 2018, Proper 22, Year B

Lections for Canadian Thanksgiving 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 (Job 1:1, 2:1-10)

Job, although not an Israelite or living in Israel, is a righteous man whom Satan afflicts with awful sores in order to turn him against the Lord. His wife wants him to curse God and die but he remains steadfast that we must accept both good and bad from the Lord.

Psalm (26)

The Psalmist asserts his integrity before the Lord and is willing to undergo testing in order to prove it. He proclaims his innocence and refuses to associate with evil people. He pleads not to be swept away in judgment with the sinners and hypocrites.

Second Reading (Hebrews 1:1-4, 2:5-12)

The writer states that God’s final word is to us is Jesus, his Son and heir. Superior even to angels, he has accomplished salvation for all people and, as man, fulfilling their status over all creation. Through his suffering he sanctified them to be his brothers and sisters.

Gospel (Mark 10:2-16)

Jesus bases his teaching about divorce on the creation account, showing that marriage joins a man and a woman in one flesh. Divorce separates what God has joined and violates his intent. He also says that God’s kingdom can only be entered like a child.

CONNECTION SUGGESTIONS

  • We do not always fulfill our purpose in marriage
  • We can rarely perceive God’s purpose in innocent suffering
  • Human beings are valued by God over all other earthly creatures
  • With the coming of Jesus we have entered the new and final phase of revelation in God’s plan to restore creation

Based on the Alternative Readings

First Reading (Genesis 2:18-24)

Realizing that the newly created man needed a partner and helper, the Lord God created a woman out of the man’s rib. Accordingly, the man named her Woman and we are told that this is why a man leaves his parents to become one flesh with his wife.

Psalm (8)

The Lord is altogether majestic using even children to thwart those who oppose him. He made humankind lower than the angels, crowned them with glory and honour and gave them dominion over the creation. This, too, demonstrates his majesty.

Second Reading (Hebrews 1:1-4, 2:5-12)

The writer states that God’s final word is to us is Jesus, his Son and heir. Superior even to angels, he has accomplished salvation for all people and, as man, fulfilling their status over all creation. Through his suffering he sanctified them to be his brothers and sisters.

Gospel (Mark 10:2-16)

Jesus bases his teaching about divorce on the creation account, showing that marriage joins a man and a woman in one flesh. Divorce separates what God has joined and violates his intent. He also says that God’s kingdom can only be entered like a child.

CONNECTION SUGGESTIONS

  • Marriage is a profound union of man and woman for their mutual benefit
  • Children have a special place in God’s salvation
  • With the coming of Jesus we have entered the new and final phase of revelation in God’s plan to restore the creation
  • God’s design is for our benefit

 

Posted on

Nineteenth Sunday after Pentecost, September 30, 2018, Proper 21, Year B

Please see How to Use Lection Connection

Full lections can be read here.

Based on the Readings as Set

First Reading (Esther 7:1-6, 9-10; 9:20-22)

While in Persian exile, the Israelite Mordecai, father of Queen Esther, had overheard a plot to assassinate her husband, King Ahasuerus. A grateful king grants her wish to save the Jews and executes their enemy Haman, thus originating their feast called Purim.

Psalm (124)

The Psalmist celebrates how, if the Lord had not been on their side, the enemies of Israel would have destroyed them completely. Now they freely acknowledge that their help is his name alone, the creator of all.

Second Reading (James 5:13-20)

James encourages his readers to be people of prayer and praise: prayer when they are suffering and praise when they are happy. Sins can be forgiven through the powerful instrument of prayer. To bring a sinner back to the truth will save him from death.

Gospel (Mark 9:38-50)

Jesus teaches that anyone who is not against him and his disciples is for them. Anyone who helps a “little” follower of his will be rewarded while a hinderer will be severely punished. Hell is to be avoided at all costs while we are to be at peace with one another.

CONNECTION SUGGESTIONS

  • The enemies of God are in dangerous territory because he is on the side of his people, both big and small
  • Sin is a very serious matter and should be avoided at all costs
  • God can use anyone for his purposes
  • The believer is to be dependent upon God alone

Based on the Alternative Readings

First Reading (Numbers 11:4-6, 10-16, 24-29)

Moses complains to the Lord that the obstinate nation is too heavy for him. The Lord puts a portion of his Spirit on 70 elders to assist him. When two who were absent begin to prophesy as well, Moses wishes the Spirit could come on all God’s people.

Psalm (19:7-14)

The Law of God is perfect and revives the soul. His precepts are much more valuable than pure gold. Following them has its own reward and keeps us from sin, even if unknown to ourselves. Both our thoughts and words need to be in tune with God.

Second Reading (James 5:13-20)

James encourages his readers to be people of prayer and praise: prayer when they are suffering and praise when they are happy. Sins can be forgiven through the powerful instrument of prayer. To bring a sinner back to the truth will save him from death.

Gospel (Mark 9:38-50)

Jesus teaches that anyone who is not against him and his disciples is for them. Anyone who helps a “little” follower of his will be rewarded while a hinderer will be severely punished. Hell is to be avoided at all costs while we are to be at peace with one another.

CONNECTION SUGGESTIONS

  • Our entire life, inner and outer, needs to be submitted to God and lived in his will
  • Sin is a very serious matter and should be avoided at all costs
  • God will provide
  • We need God’s presence to do God’s work

 

 

Posted on

Eighteenth Sunday after Pentecost, September 23, 2018, Proper 20, Year B

Please see How to Use Lection Connection 

Full lections can be read here.

Based on the Readings as Set

First Reading (Proverbs 31:10-31)

The writer details the qualities of a good wife who provides for her family wisely and generously, while supporting the poor. Her husband, children and community all praise her good works. Her obedience to the Lord is better than mere charm and beauty.

Psalm (1)

The Psalmist likens a person who obeys God’s laws to a tree planted by a river, always flourishing. Unlike sinners and scoffers who come and go with the wind, they are happy and content in the knowledge that the Lord watches over them as they walk in his way.

Second Reading (James 3:13-4:3, 7-8a)

Godly wisdom shows in one’s good works that, done in gentleness, promote harmony and peace. False wisdom gives rein to our inner cravings for things, resulting in conflict. Resist these and the devil behind them will flee as you look to God for your needs.

Gospel (Mark 9:30-37)

On the way through Galilee Jesus again tells his disciples that he will be betrayed, die and rise again in three days. Still not understanding, they are afraid and soon fall into arguing about who is the greatest. Jesus them that the humble servant shall be first.

CONNECTION SUGGESTIONS

  • God honours the simple fulfilment of our calling
  • Trusting the Lord is the way to contentment and stability
  • Going our own way leads to trouble
  • Good works are good
  • Serving others is serving yourself

Based on the Alternative Readings

First Reading (Jeremiah 11:18-20)

The Lord informs Jeremiah of a plot against him. Like a lamb led to the slaughter, he had no idea of their scheme to make him and his memory disappear from the face of the earth. The prophet, trusting in the Lord, invokes divine vengeance upon them.

Psalm (54)

The Psalmist calls upon the Lord to hear his prayer and vindicate him against those who have risen up against him. He knows that the Lord will do this, and he will offer a sacrifice of thanksgiving for his victory over his enemies.

Second Reading (James 3:13-4:3, 7-8a)

Godly wisdom shows in one’s good works that, done in gentleness, promote harmony and peace. False wisdom gives rein to our inner cravings for things, resulting in conflict. Resist these and the devil behind them will flee as you look to God for your needs.

Gospel (Mark 9:30-37)

On the way through Galilee Jesus again tells his disciples that he will be betrayed, die and rise again in three days. Still not understanding, they are afraid and soon fall into arguing about who is the greatest. Jesus them that the humble servant shall be first.

CONNECTION SUGGESTIONS

  • Going our own way leads to trouble
  • Peace comes from leaving retribution and revenge to the Lord
  • We can expect opposition when we decide to follow Jesus
  • Opposition to God’s way arises both within and from without

 

 

Posted on

Seventeenth Sunday after Pentecost, September 16, 2018, Proper 19, Year B

Please see How to Use Lection Connection

Full lections can be read here.

Based on the Readings as Set

First Reading (Proverbs 1:20-33)

Wisdom calls out to both the simple and the scoffer to listen to her or find themselves in ruin and unable to save themselves from circumstances of their own making. Those who take Wisdom to heart, who fear the Lord, will find security and peace.

Psalm (19)

Even though the creation itself cannot speak it does declare God’s word. Like the sun revives the earth each day, the Law of God joyfully revives the soul. Following it has its own rewards. Our thoughts, as well as our words, need to be in tune with God’s ways.

Second Reading (James 3:1-12)

James warns that teachers should take care because they will be held to a higher standard. The tongue, although small, can be the spark that sets off a poisonous fire. If it utters both blesses and curses it is only reflecting the unperfected heart of the speaker.

Gospel (Mark 8:27-38)

In response to Jesus’ question, Peter identifies him as the Messiah. Jesus then says that he will suffer, die, and then rise again. Peter strongly objects, but Jesus emphasizes that God’s way is that both he and his followers are to lose their lives in order to save them.

CONNECTION SUGGESTIONS

  • The way of God, although contrary to human inclinations, leads to life and peace
  • Be careful little tongue what you say
  • What we say reflects who we are
  • True faithfulness is more than skin deep

Based on the Alternative Readings

First Reading (Isaiah 50:4-9a)

Isaiah speaks of the servant of the Lord, a teacher whose word sustains the weary and is determined to accomplish his appointed task in spite of suffering. He knows the Lord is near to help and no one has grounds to say that he is guilty of anything wrong.

Psalm (116:1-9)

The Psalmist speaks of having called to the Lord in a life-threatening crisis and being delivered from death. The Lord protects those who simply trust in him and delivers them from death, enabling them to walk before him among the living.

Second Reading (James 3:1-12)

James warns that teachers should take care because they will be held to a higher standard. The tongue, although small, can be the spark that sets off a poisonous fire. If it utters both blesses and curses it is only reflecting the unperfected heart of the speaker.

Gospel (Mark 8:27-38)

In response to Jesus’ question, Peter identifies him as the Messiah. Jesus then says that he will suffer, die, and then rise again. Peter strongly objects, but Jesus emphasizes that God’s way is that both he and his followers are to lose their lives in order to save them.

CONNECTION SUGGESTIONS

  • The way of God, although contrary to human inclinations, leads to life and peace
  • God will sustain the faithful, even through death itself
  • Be careful little tongue what you say
  • The call to teach the Word of God is both scary and rewarding

 

Posted on

Sixteenth Sunday after Pentecost, September 9, 2018, Proper 18, Year B

Please see How to Use Lection Connection

Full lections can be read here.

Based on the Readings as Set

First Reading (Proverbs 22:1-2, 8-9, 22-23)

The writer sets out reasons for the rich to treat the poor with respect and dignity. In the end, both rich and poor are God’s creatures and a good name is far better than merely being rich. The Lord is on the side of the poor, defending them against injustice.

Psalm (125)

The Psalmist declares that the Lord surrounds his people like the unmoveable mountains that surround Jerusalem. Wickedness is to be banished from the Land and goodness rewarded. Evildoers will ultimately be expelled and Israel will be at peace.

Second Reading (James 2:1-10, [11-13], 14-17)

James challenges his readers to realize that loving their neighbour is inconsistent with favouritism toward the rich. The rich are the oppressors of the faithful while it is the poor who are rich in faith and deserve honour. Real faith produces good works, not just words.

Gospel (Mark 7:24-37)

Jesus hesitates to help a Gentile woman but then responds to her persistence and humility by healing her demon-possessed daughter. In another Gentile area he opens a man’s ears and loosens his tongue, to the astonishment and admiration of all.

CONNECTION SUGGESTIONS

  • Being rich is not a clear sign of God’s blessing
  • True riches are found in one’s faith in the God of both rich and poor
  • The poor have a special place in God’s heart
  • The love of God crosses barriers: rich and poor; Jew and Gentile
  • Actions speak louder than words

Based on the Alternative Readings

First Reading (Isaiah 35:4-7a)

Describing a future time of redemption, Isaiah speaks of a terrible recompense for evildoers. But at that time the blind will see, the deaf hear, the lame walk, the speech-impaired speak, as the wilderness is transformed by freshly abundant water.

Psalm (146)

The Psalmist encourages a life of praise to the Lord who keeps faith forever, unlike mortals whose help comes to an end. Creator of all, he provides food to the hungry, justice for the oppressed and recompense for the wicked. His reign is without end.

Second Reading (James 2:1-10, [11-13], 14-17)

James challenges his readers to realize that loving their neighbour is inconsistent with favouritism toward the rich. The rich are oppressors of the faithful while the poor are rich in faith and deserve honour. Real faith produces good works, not just words.

Gospel (Mark 7:24-37)

Jesus hesitates to help a Gentile woman but then responds to her persistence and humility by healing her demon-possessed daughter. In another Gentile area he opens a man’s ears and loosens his tongue to the astonishment and admiration of all.

CONNECTION SUGGESTIONS

  • The Kingdom of God involves remarkable transformations back to the way things ought to be
  • The poor have a special place in God’s heart
  • The love of God crosses barriers: rich and poor; Jew and Gentile
  • Actions speak louder than words

 

Posted on

Fifteenth Sunday after Pentecost, September 2, 2018, Proper 17, Year B

Please see How to Use Lection Connection

Full lections can be read here.

Based on the Readings as Set

First Reading (Song of Solomon 2:8-13)

A woman rapturously describes the arrival of her true love at her window. He calls for her to get up and go with him, now that spring has come and the flowers have risen. It is the time for love.

Psalm (45:1-2, 6-9)

The king is addressed in exuberant terms: handsome, graceful, blessed, and even as God. He rules in equity and righteousness, uniquely anointed by God. Instruments play in his fragrant palaces, serenading his splendid Queen and her royal attendants.

Second Reading (James 1:17-27)

James points out that God has given Christians birth by the word of truth. We should not be just hearers who walk away unmoved, but doers of the word. Blessed in their so doing, authentic believers guard their own tongue while caring for the needy.

Gospel (Mark 7:1-8, 14-15, 21-23)

Jesus accuses some Jewish leaders of hypocrisy because they are so focused on external matters that they have neglected defilement arising in the heart. They have put human traditions over God’s word, thereby missing the true source of sin within each person.

CONNECTION SUGGESTIONS

  • The heart of the matter is a matter of the heart
  • Our outward manner should reflect our inner person
  • Authentic faith leads to authentic action
  • Doing the word is true listening

Based on the Alternative Readings

First Reading (Deuteronomy 4:1-2, 6-9)

As they are about to enter the Promised Land, Moses charges the Israelites to keep the commandments he has given and pass them along unimpaired to their children. Doing so will impress the nations with their wisdom and the closeness of their God.

Psalm (15)

The Psalmist affirms that only those who live righteously can dwell in the Presence of the Lord. They speak the truth and do no evil, despising evil doers and honoring those who keep their word. They do not lend at interest or take bribes to pervert justice.

Second Reading (James 1:17-27)

James points out that God has given Christians birth by the word of truth. We should not be just hearers who walk away unmoved, but doers of the word. Blessed in their doing, authentic believers guard their own tongue while caring for the needy.

Gospel (Mark 7:1-8, 14-15, 21-23)

Jesus accuses some Jewish leaders of hypocrisy because they are so focused on external matters that they have neglected defilement arising in the heart. They have put human traditions over God’s word, thereby missing the true source of sin within each person.

CONNECTION SUGGESTIONS

  • Following the word of God leads to wisdom and closeness with him
  • Our outward manner should reflect our inner person
  • Authentic faith leads to authentic action
  • Doing the word is true listening
Posted on

Fourteenth Sunday after Pentecost, August 26, 2018, Proper 16, Year B

Please see How to Use Lection Connection 

Full lections can be read here.

Based on the Readings as Set

First Reading (1 Kings 8:[1,6,10-11], 22-30, 41-43)

Solomon dedicates the new temple and the divine Presence powerfully fills the building. The king knows that the Lord is not confined to this space but asks that all those who pray toward it, Jew and Gentile alike, will be answered and come to know the Lord.

Psalm (84)

The Psalmist exults in the blessings of living in the presence of God, his temple and his city. A single day spent there is worth thousands wasted in sin. He affirms that those who derive their strength from God alone are the happiest of all.

Second Reading (Ephesians 6:10-20)

Paul affirms that the Christian struggle is not with other humans but with evil spiritual forces. We need to use all the spiritual weapons God has for us, like soldiers fully armed for battle. The Ephesians are to pray that Paul will do his best to advance the Gospel.

Gospel (John 6:56-69)

Although Jesus discourages a literal meaning, talking of the need to eat his flesh and drink his blood offends many of his disciples and they desert him. The twelve remain with him, knowing, as Peter puts it, that only he has the words of eternal life.

CONNECTION SUGGESTIONS

  • Being in the presence of the Lord trumps all other considerations
  • The struggles of individual believers are part of a universal cosmic spiritual struggle
  • Only the Lord is able to provide eternal life as well as victory over sin and death: it is to him alone that we must look
  • We need to look beyond the surface to see God at work at the spiritual level

Based on the Alternative Readings

First Reading (Joshua 24:1-2a, 14-18)

Having led Israel in the conquest of Canaan, Joshua charges the nation always to follow the Lord and not the gods of their ancestors or the gods of the Land. Joshua commits himself and his family to the Lord as do the people, knowing what he has done for them.

Psalm (34:15-22)

The Psalmist asserts that the Lord helps those who follow his laws but is against those who do evil. Even though the righteous are beset by many troubles, they will be rescued and live. The wicked will be condemned to death for their evil deeds.

Second Reading (Ephesians 6:10-20)

Paul affirms that the Christian struggle is not with other humans but with evil spiritual forces. We need to use all the spiritual weapons God has for us, like soldiers fully armed for battle. The Ephesians are to pray that Paul will do his best to advance the Gospel.

Gospel (John 6:56-69)

Although Jesus discourages a literal meaning, talking of the need to eat his flesh and drink his blood offends many of his disciples and they desert him. The twelve remain with him, knowing, as Peter puts it, that only he has the words of eternal life.

CONNECTION SUGGESTIONS

  • There is only one way to live and that is by the word of the Lord
  • The struggles of individual believers are part of a universal cosmic spiritual struggle
  • Only the Lord is able to provide eternal life as well as victory over sin and death: it is to him alone that we must look
  • We need to look beyond the surface to see God at work at the spiritual level

 

 

 

Posted on

Thirteenth Sunday after Pentecost, August 19, 2018, Proper 15, Year B

Please see How to Use Lection Connection

Full lections can be read here.

Based on the Readings as Set

First Reading (1 Kings 2:10-12; 3:3-14)

After David dies his faithful son Solomon succeeds him. The Lord appears and asks him if there is anything that he wants and he, knowing he is but a young man, asks for wisdom to rule well over Israel. Pleased, the Lord grants this along with wealth and a long life.

Psalm (111)

The Psalmist gives many reasons to praise the Lord: his works revealing his honour and majesty, his provision for the needs of his people, his trustworthy laws, and the redemption of his people. Indeed, the fear of the Lord is the beginning of wisdom.

Second Reading (Ephesians 5:15-20)

Paul urges his readers to live wisely in an evil time, not wasting any time and knowing the will of God. Rather than being drunk with wine they should be filled with the Spirit, singing and giving thanks to the Lord for all things in the name of the Lord Jesus Christ.

Gospel (John 6:51-58)

Jesus’ listeners are disturbed by his claim that his flesh is the bread of life. Jesus does not soften his words, saying plainly that consuming his flesh and blood and abiding in him is essential to eternal life and to being among those he will raise from the dead.

CONNECTION SUGGESTIONS

• True wisdom is knowing the Lord and following him in obedience
• We need the wisdom of God to navigate our way through the evil of this world
• The Son of David is a man of wisdom beyond his peers
• Our relationship with the Lord Jesus determines our way of life and our destiny

Based on the Alternative Readings

First Reading (Proverbs 9:1-6)

The writer depicts wisdom as a well-built house filled with succulent food and to which all those who need good judgment are invited. Here they will find what they need to live mature and insightful lives.

Psalm (34:9-14)

The Psalmist calls God’s people to fear the Lord and they will lack nothing. If they will depart from deceitful conversation and direct themselves toward doing good and peaceful things they will both find them and have time to enjoy them.

Second Reading (Ephesians 5:15-20)

Paul urges his readers to live wisely in an evil time, not wasting any time and knowing the will of God. Rather than being drunk with wine they should be filled with the Spirit, singing and giving thanks to the Lord for all things in the name of the Lord Jesus Christ.

Gospel (John 6:51-58)

Jesus’ listeners are disturbed by his claim that his flesh is the bread of life. Jesus does not soften his words, saying plainly that consuming his flesh and blood and abiding in him is essential to eternal life and to being among those he will raise from the dead.

CONNECTION SUGGESTIONS

• True wisdom is knowing the Lord and following him in obedience
• We need the wisdom of God to navigate our way through the evil of this world
• Our relationship with the Lord Jesus determines our way of life and our destiny
• The Lord provides the kind of food we really need