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

Trinity Sunday, May 27, 2018, Year B

Please see How to Use Lection Connection

Full lections can be read here.

Based on the Readings as Set

First Reading (Isaiah 6:1-8)

Isaiah is called to his prophetic task through a vision in which he finds himself in the awesome presence of YAHWEH seated upon his heavenly throne. Seraphs thunder their threefold chants of “Holy” while one purifies Isaiah’s unclean lips, qualifying him to proclaim God’s word.

Psalm (29)

The Psalmist calls all heavenly creatures to worship YAHWEH garbed in perfect holiness. His voice is altogether powerful, a rushing mighty flame of fire able to strip the forest bare. All in his temple call “Glory!” to the eternal king. May he bless his people with strength and peace.

Second Reading (Romans 8:12-17)

St. Paul affirms that it is by the Holy Spirit that Christians conquer over the “flesh” and are granted eternal life. All who possess the Holy Spirit are God’s adopted children. Instead of fearful slaves in his presence, they are heirs with Christ, sharing in his glory through suffering.

Gospel (John 3:1-17)

Jesus tells Nicodemus that one must be born from above in order to enter the Kingdom of God. While this is a mysterious work of the Spirit, Jesus, being from heaven, can testify to its truth. God sent him out of love, in order that all who believe in him might not perish but be saved.

CONNECTION SUGGESTIONS

  • God makes a way for sinful humankind to draw near to him: from being estranged to being an heir
  • The interrelated work of Father, Son and Holy Spirit
  • The holy and majestic nature of God
  • Being in the presence of God is not something to be taken lightly