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Full lections can be read here.
Based on the Readings as Set
First Reading (Lamentations 1:1-6)
The writer of Lamentations is eloquent in his sad description of a ruined and desolate Judah and Jerusalem, once majestic among the nations, now like a forlorn widow. He notes simply that this has all come about because of unfaithfulness to the Lord.
Psalm Substitute (Lamentations 3:19-26)
The author of Lamentations continues by expressing his deep pain at Judah’s fate but remembers that the Lord is merciful and faithful and his salvation worth waiting for. From this though he derives his hope.
Second Reading (2 Timothy 1:1-14)
Paul, himself suffering for being faithful, trusts in Christ for his ultimate vindication. He urges Timothy to join him in suffering for the gospel, rekindling the gift of faith that was also in his mother and grandmother and holding to the message of grace already given.
Gospel (Luke 17:5-10)
In response to his disciples’ request for more faith, Jesus asserts that true faith is indeed powerful enough to move mountains. But in contrast he affirms that humble obedience through the simple performance of our duties is the best expression of faith.
Connection Suggestions
- Disobedience or obedience may result in suffering
- Doing the right thing because it is the right thing is always the right thing
- Repent or perish!
- Simple faithful obedience is better than spectacular demonstrations of faith
Based on the Alternative Readings A
First Reading (Lamentations 1:1-6)
The writer of Lamentations is eloquent in his sad description of a ruined and desolate Judah and Jerusalem, once majestic among the nations, now like a forlorn widow. He notes simply that this has all come about because of unfaithfulness to the Lord.
Psalm (137)
The Psalmist bitterly resents the conquerors’ demands for entertainment from the captives. Blaming only the enemies of Judah, especially the Babylonians, for the disaster, he calls on the Lord to execute terrible judgment upon them.
Second Reading (2 Timothy 1:1-14)
Paul, himself suffering for being faithful, trusts in Christ for his ultimate vindication. He urges Timothy to join him in suffering for the gospel, rekindling the gift of faith that was also in his mother and grandmother and holding to the message of grace already given.
Gospel (Luke 17:5-10)
In response to his disciples’ request for more faith, Jesus asserts that true faith is indeed powerful enough to move mountains. But in contrast he affirms that humble obedience through the simple performance of our duties is the best expression of faith.
Connection Suggestions
- Disobedience or obedience may result in suffering
- Doing the right thing because it is the right thing is always the right thing
- Simple faithful obedience is better than spectacular demonstrations of faith
- Faithfulness in suffering is sustained by a focus on grace received
Based on Alternative Readings B
First Reading (Habakkuk 1:1-4; 2:1-4)
Crying out for the Lord to end his silence concerning Judah’s destruction, the prophet Habakkuk decides simply to await the divine word. He is told of a coming “end” for which he is to wait, trusting in God’s word. It is by such faith that the righteous will live.
Psalm (37:1-9)
“Just wait” is the counsel of the Psalmist to those who agonize over the triumph of the wicked all around him. Look to the Lord and all will be well. Burning anger will lead to evil but faithfulness will result in inheriting the land and the destruction of the wicked.
Second Reading (2 Timothy 1:1-14)
Paul, himself suffering for being faithful, trusts in Christ for his ultimate vindication. He urges Timothy to join him in suffering for the gospel, rekindling the gift of faith that was also in his mother and grandmother and holding to the message of grace already given.
Gospel (Luke 17:5-10)
In response to his disciples’ request for more faith, Jesus asserts that true faith is indeed powerful enough to move mountains. But in contrast he affirms that humble obedience through the simple performance of our duties is the best expression of faith.
Connection Suggestions
- Doing the right thing because it is the right thing is always the right thing
- Simple faithful obedience is better than spectacular demonstrations of faith
- Faithfulness in suffering is sustained by a focus on grace received
- Trusting in God often means waiting for him
