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Third Sunday in Lent, Year A, March 15, 2020

Please see How to Use Lection Connection.

Full lections can be read here.

 

Based on the Readings as Set

First Reading (Exodus 17:1-7)

After Israel’s miraculous escape from Egypt at the hand of the Lord, the people bitterly complain to Moses that they will die because there is no water in the wilderness. The Lord commands Moses to strike a rock in order to provide life-giving water for them.

Psalm (95)

The Psalmist calls the people to worship the Lord with thanksgiving because of who he is and what he has done. He warns them not to be like their ancestors who tested the Lord by complaining in the wilderness and were denied entrance into the Promised Land.

Second Reading (Romans 5:1-11)

St. Paul marvels at the grace of God who saved us through Christ while we were still weak sinners and his enemies. This is a work of the Holy Spirit who enables our sufferings to create, in turn, endurance, character and a hope that does not disappoint.

Gospel (John 4:5-42)

In Samaria Jesus offers a woman water that produces eternal life, although he knows she is a sinner from a despised race. Astonished at his insight, she goes home to share her experience. Saying true food is doing God’s work, Jesus remains there to preach.

 

CONNECTION SUGGESTIONS

  • The Lord saves us in spite of our unworthiness (grace)
  • Jesus is the only source of eternal life, the font of every blessing
  • We are made right with God to live right with God (and our neighbours)
  • God has done so much for us we are without excuse for not serving him with all our hearts

COLLECT OF THE DAY (BAS, Canada)

Almighty God,
whose Son Jesus Christ gives the water of eternal life, may we always thirst for you,
the spring of life and source of goodness;
through him who lives and reigns with you
and the Holy Spirit,
one God, now and for ever. AMEN.

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Thanksgiving Day, Year C

Please see How to Use Lection Connection

Full lections can be read here.

 

Based on the Readings as Set

First Reading (Deuteronomy 26:1-11)

Moses commands the Israelites, once they have arrived in the Promised Land, to bring its first fruits as an offering to the Lord while reciting the story of their deliverance from Egypt. The harvest is to be celebrated as part of God’s gracious provision for his people.

Psalm (100)

The Psalmist calls upon the whole world to worship the Lord because he is the creator of all. His courts are to be filled with praise and thanksgiving for his goodness, steadfast love and eternal faithfulness through the years.

Second Reading (Philippians 4:4-9)

Paul calls the Philippians to “Rejoice” while encouraging his readers to turn to God in prayer and thanksgiving instead of worrying about things. This leads to a profound peace that can be maintained by focusing our thoughts and actions on all things good.

Gospel (John 6:25-35)

The people who had just been miraculously fed by Jesus now demand a sign like the bread from heaven that Moses gave their ancestors. In response, Jesus claims to be the Father’s gift of “true bread from heaven”, the “bread of life”. This food satisfies forever.

CONNECTION SUGGESTIONS

  • Giving thanks for God’s provision for the necessities of life
  • God provides for both our material and spiritual needs
  • Thanksgiving is a way of life
  • Praise and thanksgiving orient us to the One who is behind all blessings