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Full lections can be read here.
Based on the Readings as Set
First Reading (Joel 2:23-32)
The prophet Joel tells of a time in which the Lord will exalt his humiliated people, blessing them extremely abundantly both materially and spiritually. Indeed, his Spirit will be poured upon each one of them and those who look to him will be saved.
Psalm (65)
The Psalmist calls us to rejoice in the God who answers prayer and saves us, forgiving us and delivering us from evil. The God of all creation shows his power especially in providing water in abundance, enabling the fruits of the earth to flourish.
Second Reading (2 Timothy 4:6-8, 16-18)
Paul anticipates that day when, having expended himself fully, he, along with all who have looked for Jesus to appear, will receive the crown of righteousness. Experience has proven that he will be rescued from all adversity and so attain to the kingdom at last.
Gospel (Luke 18:9-14)
Jesus’ story of the Pharisee and the tax collector vividly illustrates the fact that God will exalt the truly humble and humiliate the falsely proud. It is the sinner who calls out to God for mercy who is saved, not the one who is confident in his own righteousness.
CONNECTION SUGGESTIONS
- Being open and honest before God in our needs
- It is only God who can save us, he alone is our saviour
- The salvation of God is both spiritual and material in nature
- Humility is the place to start in our relationship with God
- Evil is more powerful than our own resources to overcome it
Based on the Alternative Readings
First Reading (Jeremiah 14:7-10, 19-22)
Jeremiah voices the urgent appeal of a distressed nation to their God who seems to be acting like a stranger. Taking responsibility for their sins, they pointedly argue that if the Lord fails to save his covenant people, it is his own name that will be disgraced.
Psalm (84:1-7)
The Psalmist exults in the many delights of living in the very presence of God. He affirms that those who derive their strength from God alone are the happiest of all. Indeed, the ways to his divine presence are very evident in their hearts.
Second Reading (2 Timothy 4:6-8, 16-18)
Paul anticipates that day when, having expended himself fully, he, along with all who have looked for Jesus to appear, will receive the crown of righteousness. Experience has proven that he will be rescued from all adversity and so attain to the kingdom at last.
Gospel (Luke 18:9-14)
Jesus’ story of the Pharisee and the tax collector vividly illustrates the fact that God will exalt the truly humble and humiliate the falsely proud. It is the sinner who calls out to God for mercy who is saved, not the one who is confident in his own righteousness.
CONNECTION SUGGESTIONS
- Being open and honest before God in our needs
- It is only God who can save us, he alone is our saviour
- Humility is the place to start in our relationship with God
- Evil is more powerful than our own resources to overcome it
- Taking responsibility for our own sin