Please see How to Use Lection Connection
Full lections can be read here.
Based on the Readings as Set
First Reading (Jeremiah 17:5-10)
Jeremiah declares that to trust in humankind is to end up like a plant dying in the desert. But to trust in the Lord is to be blessed, like a thriving tree planted by water, unafraid of any drought. The human heart is unreliable and known only to the Lord, who rewards those who do good.
Psalm (1)
The Psalmist declares happy those who ignore the advice of the wicked and instead delight in the Law of the Lord. They are like perpetually fruitful trees beside a river instead of chaff blown away by the wind. The wicked will suffer judgment while the Lord guides the righteous forever.
Second Reading (1 Corinthians 15:12-20)
If it is true that the dead are not raised, says Paul, then the apostles are liars, Jesus is still dead, sin has not been dealt with, and the Christian dead have died without hope. We are the most pitiful people of all. But, in fact, Christ has been raised, the first of many others sure to follow.
Gospel (Luke 6:17-26)
A large crowd gathers to hear Jesus and to be healed by his evident power. He tells his disciples that the poor, the hungry, the sorrowful and the reviled will have their fortunes reversed, while those who are enjoying life now will lose it all. He warns that God’s heralds are never popular.
CONNECTION SUGGESTIONS
- A message cannot be judged by how well it is received
- The way of faithfulness is not immediately obvious
- Jesus has power over every difficult circumstance and even death itself
- The judgment of God will reverse every injustice and set things right
- Following the ways of God ultimately leads to a full and fruitful life