Posted on

Twentieth Sunday after Pentecost, October 22, 2017, Proper 24, Year A

Please see How to Use Lection Connection

Full lections can be read here.

Based on the Readings as Set

First Reading (Exodus 33:12-23)

Moses feels the heavy responsibility of leading unruly Israel and appeals to Yahweh for help. Yahweh promises that his Presence will go with them and so demonstrate their uniqueness among the nations. He then grants Moses’ request to see his divine glory by protecting him in a cleft of a rock and covering him with his own hand. For his own safety Moses was only able to glimpse the divine form from behind and not face to face.

Psalm (99)

The Psalmist begins with the affirmation of Yahweh as King of all peoples, a King whose love of justice and righteousness has been implemented first of all in Israel. Three times Yahweh is declared holy and three times the people are called to worship in his awesome Presence.

Second Reading (1 Thessalonians 1:1-10)

St. Paul knows the Thessalonians are among God’s chosen because his preaching of the Gospel was in the Holy Spirit and power. Responding with faith, they became willing imitators of Paul and his team, joyful examples to others well beyond their own region. In spite of persecution they turned from idols to the living God and now wait for his resurrected Son to return and rescue them from the wrath to come.

Gospel (Matthew 22:15-22)

A group of Pharisees try to trick Jesus up by asking him if he considers it lawful to pay an unpopular tax to the Roman emperor. Jesus, knowing their intent, asks them whose head and title are inscribed on the coin used for the tax. Of course it is Caesar’s and Jesus tell them to give to Caesar what is his and to God what is his. Amazed at his answer, they leave him alone.

CONNECTION SUGGESTIONS

  • Everything in all creation belongs to God
  • Questioning God?
  • The importance of the right attitude when confronted with the truth of God
  • To whom do we owe ultimate allegiance?
  • The holiness of God
  • Being in the presence of God
  • What to do in the face of opposition

Based on the Alternative Set of Readings

First Reading (Isaiah 45:1-7)

Yahweh proclaims Cyrus the Persian emperor as his anointed servant through whom he is working on behalf of Israel, his chosen people. Even though the mighty king does not know him, Yahweh affirms his divine sovereignty, not only over him but also all of history. He alone is God and his actions are intended to make this fact known far and wide.

Psalm (96:1-9, [10-13])

In a breathtaking affirmation of Yahweh’s absolute sovereignty over the entire earth, the Psalmist calls for all the nations to come into his sanctuary to worship him as the only king. He is the all-powerful creator while other gods are mere idols. He alone is the judge and even the trees of the field join in the joyful acknowledgement of his majesty.

Second Reading (1 Thessalonians 1:1-10)

St. Paul knows the Thessalonians are among God’s chosen because his preaching of the Gospel was in the Holy Spirit, both in word and power. Responding with faith, they became willing imitators of Paul and his team, joyful examples to others well beyond their own region. In spite of persecution they turned from idols to the living God and now wait for his resurrected Son to return and rescue them from the wrath to come.

Gospel (Matthew 22:15-22)

A group of Pharisees try to trick Jesus up by asking him if he considers it lawful to pay an unpopular tax to the Roman emperor. Jesus, knowing their intent, asks them whose head and title are inscribed on the coin used for the tax. Of course it is Caesar’s and Jesus tell them to give to Caesar what is his and to God what is his. Amazed at his answer, they leave him alone.

CONNECTION SUGGESTIONS

  • Everything in all creation belongs to God
  • To whom do we owe ultimate allegiance?
  • God is sovereign over earthly kings
  • God is accomplishing his purposes in history
  • Turning from idols to the living God
  • The joy of following Jesus

 

Posted on

Nineteenth Sunday after Pentecost, October 15, 2017, Proper 23, Year A

Please see How to Use Lection Connection

Full lections can be read here.

Based on the Readings as Set

First Reading (Exodus 32:1-14)

While Moses meets with Yahweh on Mt. Sinai the people, again upset with Moses’ leadership, demand that Aaron make gods for them. He makes a golden calf that they then celebrate as responsible for their deliverance out of Egypt. Yahweh angrily decides to destroy a people so quick to turn away from him. He plans to make a great nation out of Moses instead but changes his mind when the latter intercedes for the Israelites.

Psalm (106:1-6, 19-23)

The Psalmist reflects on the steadfast love of Yahweh for his chosen people in light of their great sin with the golden calf at Mt. Sinai. Although they dishonoured and insulted their saviour and angered him exceedingly, Moses was able to intercede and prevent their destruction.

Second Reading (Philippians 4:1-9)

St. Paul urges his readers to stand firm by being of the same mind in the Lord. He urges intercession for two women who are in disagreement and offers this advice to all: give thanks in everything. Thankfulness is the way to peace as we focus our attention on those things that are honourable, commendable and praiseworthy.

Gospel (Matthew 22:1-14)

Jesus likens the kingdom to a king who invites a number of guests to the wedding of his son but they violently reject his messengers when they announce the great feast that has been prepared. This so enrages the king that he invites everyone else to the feast and, while many come, one man is rejected for failing to wear a proper garment. Jesus concludes that although many are called into the kingdom not many will actually enter it.

CONNECTION SUGGESTIONS

  • God provides a feast
  • Feasting as a Godly celebration of salvation
  • The importance of interceding
  • The serious nature of refusing God’s invitation to follow him
  • Our excuses for disobedience only reveal our spiritual poverty
  • Being unthankful angers God and being thankful brings peace

Based on the Alternative Set of Readings

First Reading (Isaiah 25:1-9)

Isaiah exults in Yahweh as his God, a God who shelters the needy and has done such amazing deeds that all the peoples of the earth will be drawn to worship him. They will come to Mt. Zion for a great celebratory feast as death is finally destroyed and sorrow made a thing of the past. Isaiah calls for a glad anticipation of that day of salvation for both Israel and the nations.

Psalm (23)

The Psalmist characterizes Yahweh as a skilled shepherd who can provide for his sheep in all circumstances. He provides abundant pasture and water, allows the sheep to rest and rejuvenate, always keeping danger at bay. He even provides a feast under the noses of their enemies, making it certain that the sheep will always seek his presence.

Second Reading (Philippians 4:1-9)

St. Paul urges his readers to stand firm by being of the same mind in the Lord. He urges intercession for two women who are in disagreement and offers this advice to all: give thanks in everything. Thankfulness is the way to peace as we focus our attention on those things that are honourable, commendable and praiseworthy.

Gospel (Matthew 22:1-14)

Jesus likens the kingdom to a king who invites a number of guests to the wedding of his son but they violently reject his messengers when they announce the great feast that has been prepared. This so enrages the king that he invites everyone else to the feast and, while many come, one man is rejected for failing to wear a proper garment. Jesus concludes that although many are called into the kingdom not many will actually enter it.

CONNECTION SUGGESTIONS

  • Thanksgiving as a godly way of living
  • God provides a feast
  • Feasting as a Godly celebration of salvation
  • The importance of interceding
  • The serious nature of refusing God’s invitation to follow him
  • Our excuses for disobedience only reveal our spiritual poverty
  • Being unthankful angers God and being thankful brings peace
Posted on

Eighteenth Sunday after Pentecost, October 8, 2017, Proper 22, Year A

Lection Connection for Canadian Thanksgiving can be found here.

 

Please see How to Use Lection Connection

Full lections can be read here.

Based on the Readings as Set

First Reading (Exodus 20:1-4, 7-9, 12-20)

The Ten Commandments are given for the first time as Yahweh speaks to Moses and Aaron on Mt. Sinai. These laws spell out the basics of how the people of Israel are to live in their relationships with their God, and with other people, providing divine boundaries for their conduct. The thunder and lightning etc. that issue from the heights, signify Yahweh’s presence and are meant to inspire compliance with his Law.

Psalm (19)

This meditation on the Law likens it to the awesome effect of the sun upon the earth each morning: as it revives the earth the Law revives the soul, allowing humankind to flourish. It brings to light what is right and enlightens us to see what is wrong. It even penetrates the dark recesses of our souls and exposes unknown errors. The Psalmist, desiring to be right with God, embraces and delights in his Law.

Second Reading (Philippians 3:4b-14)

St. Paul has come to the realization that his “fleshly” qualifications under the Law, while to his benefit, are mere rubbish in comparison to knowing Christ and the power of his resurrection. Righteousness is from God and based on faith in Christ, not on our own efforts to satisfy the Law. Out of this reality Paul presses on for the prize of the heavenly call.

Gospel (Matthew 21:33-46)

Jesus tells Jewish leaders a parable about a landowner who gave his vineyard well-defended boundaries and everything needed to flourish and then rented it out while he went away. When he sent servants to collect his share of the harvest they were beaten or killed by the tenants. Finally he sent his son but even he was killed. When Jesus says another people will inherit the kingdom his listeners angrily realize that he is talking about how the nation had treated both himself and all of God’s prophets.

CONNECTION SUGGESTIONS

  • Divine boundaries are for our flourishing
  • Sin is destructive in its effect
  • The history of Israel demonstrates humanity’s inability to achieve righteousness through its own efforts
  • Christ is the key to God’s plan and eclipses all that came before
  • Righteousness is a gift and a blessing

Based on the Alternative Set of Readings

First Reading (Isaiah 5:1-7)

Isaiah relates the parable of how his “beloved” had planted a vineyard on a fertile hill guarded over by a watchtower, taking great care to see that it flourished. However it only yielded wild grapes, causing him to plan for its destruction by removing its defenses and allowing it to be trampled into waste ground. Isaiah says this is really about how Yahweh had established Israel expecting it to yield justice and righteousness but it had failed miserably.

Psalm (80:7-15)

The Psalmist yearns for Yahweh to restore the nation and save it from destruction. He points out that Israel was Yahweh’s own planting and it had flourished exceedingly for a time. So why have its protective walls been destroyed enabling it to be trampled by wild beasts?

Second Reading (Philippians 3:4b-14)

St. Paul has come to the realization that his “fleshly” qualifications under the Law, while to his benefit, are mere rubbish in comparison to knowing Christ and the power of his resurrection. Righteousness is from God and based on faith in Christ, not on our own efforts to satisfy the Law. Out of this reality Paul presses on for the prize of the heavenly call.

Gospel (Matthew 21:33-46)

Jesus tells Jewish leaders a parable about a landowner who gave his vineyard well-defended boundaries and everything needed to flourish and then rented it out while he went away. When he sent servants to collect his share of the harvest they were beaten or killed by the tenants. Finally he sent his son but even he was killed. When Jesus says another people will inherit the kingdom his listeners angrily realize that he is talking about how the nation had treated both himself and all of God’s prophets.

CONNECTION SUGGESTIONS

  • The history of Israel demonstrates humanity’s inability to achieve righteousness through its own efforts
  • God’s plan is for his people and all of humanity to flourish
  • Jesus Christ is the answer to Israel’s cries for God’s salvation
  • The history of Israel is critical to the understanding of the mission and ministry of Jesus
Posted on

Thanksgiving Day, October 8, 2017, Year A

Please see How to Use Lection Connection

Full lections can be read here.

Based on the Readings as Set

First Reading (Deuteronomy 8:7-18)

Moses warns the Israelites not to forget Yahweh when they occupy Canaan and begin to enjoy the extreme fruitfulness of the Land. It was Yahweh who not only brought them out of Egypt and through the wilderness but who also gives them the strength to work the land and acquire great wealth. They owe it all to him.

Psalm (65)

The Psalmist calls for praise to the God who answers prayer and forgives sins. Those among whom he dwells are blessed indeed, but, as he is the hope of the ends of the earth, all flesh will come to him. As creator he continues to provide the resources for the enormous bounty of the earth, eliciting joy from the whole realm of nature.

Second Reading (2 Corinthians 9:6-15)

One of St. Paul’s major projects was the collection and delivery of funds from the Gentile churches for the relief of the Jewish Christians in Jerusalem. Here he encourages the Corinthians to give cheerfully and generously remembering that their blessings have come from God in the first place. Indeed, their giving will generate further blessing for themselves as well as thanksgiving to God from both Paul and the recipients.

Gospel (Luke 17:11-19)

Ten lepers approach Jesus for healing as he makes his way down to Jerusalem. He tells them to show themselves to the priests whose task it is to determine if those with communicable diseases are well enough to re-enter society. On their way they are all healed but only one of them, a Samaritan, returns to thank Jesus and praise God. It amazes Jesus that only one out of ten had come back and he sends him on his way with a commendation.

CONNECTION SUGGESTIONS

  • All that we have, including possessions and abilities, comes from God
  • Giving thanks is not to be taken for granted but needs to be encouraged
  • Failing to give thanks is often an act of forgetfulness
  • God has already done so much for us that thanksgiving is always called for
  • Thanksgiving for blessings, especially when tangibly expressed, brings blessings in turn
  • You can’t out-give God

 

 

 

 

 

Posted on

Seventeenth Sunday after Pentecost, October 1, 2017, Proper 21, Year A

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)

Having complained earlier about bitter water, now the Israelites test Yahweh by quarrelling with Moses because they find no water at Rephidim. Again Yahweh miraculously provides for them, this time having Moses strike a rock and cause water to come out. A very frustrated Moses gives the place the name “Testing” and “Quarrelling”.

Psalm (78:1-4, 12-16)

The Psalmist calls Israel to treat the “dark” story of Yahweh’s repeated provisions for their fathers during the Exodus experience as a cautionary tale that they will both celebrate and pass on to their own children. Later in the Psalm he will remark that the Israelites did not learn their lesson in the wilderness.

Second Reading (Philippians 2:1-13)

St. Paul pleads with his readers to abandon selfish ambition and conduct themselves in all humility, putting the needs of others first. This is to adopt “the mind of Christ”, who did not exploit his equality with God but took on human form, humbling himself to death on a cross. Refusing to exalt himself, God raised his name above all others as Lord of all and it is this same God who works in believers to accomplish his purposes.

Gospel (Matthew 21:23-32)

To the Jewish leaders who demand to know the source of his authority, Jesus poses the question of John the Baptist. Was his authority human or divine? If they say “divine” they will have to answer for their unbelief. If they say “human” John’s many followers will be upset. He then tells them a parable that emphasizes true obedience as action not words. Even notorious sinners who truly believed John are going into the kingdom before those whose righteousness is only skin deep.

CONNECTION SUGGESTIONS

  • Testing the Lord is not a good policy
  • It is not an easy thing to change a sinful heart (but Christ can)
  • Miracles, even repeated miracles, will not by themselves suffice for faith
  • God is a God of grace and mercy
  • Humility or self-focus? Which opens the door to others and to God?
  • Unbelief is rooted in unwillingness, not in lack of evidence

Based on the Alternative Set of Readings

First Reading (Ezekiel 18:1-4, 25-32)

Yahweh stakes his claim to every individual life and pronounces each person responsible for his or her own actions. He points out the unfairness of punishing the child for the sins of the parents. No, the person who sins is the one who dies. On the other hand, if they turn from their sins they shall live. Yahweh, having no pleasure in a sinner’s death, calls each one individually to repentance that they might live.

Psalm (25:1-9)

The Psalmist expresses his keen desire to know and follow the ways of Yahweh. He calls out for help because Yahweh is full of mercy and steadfast love, eager to respond to the humble. It is on this basis, on Yahweh’s character alone, that the Psalmist asks for forgiveness of youthful sins.

Second Reading (Philippians 2:1-13)

St. Paul pleads with his readers to abandon selfish ambition and conduct themselves in all humility, putting the needs of others first. This is to adopt “the mind of Christ”, who did not exploit his equality with God but took on human form, humbling himself to death on a cross. Refusing to exalt himself, God raised his name above all others as Lord of all and it is this same God who works in believers to accomplish his purposes.

Gospel (Matthew 21:23-32)

To the Jewish leaders who demand to know the source of his authority, Jesus poses the question of John the Baptist. Was his authority human or divine? If they say “divine” they will have to answer for their unbelief. If they say “human” John’s many followers will be upset. He then tells them a parable that emphasizes true obedience as action not words. Even notorious sinners who truly believed John are going into the kingdom before those whose righteousness is only skin deep.

CONNECTION SUGGESTIONS

  • The importance of taking personal responsibility for one’s sin
  • Personal and/or corporate repentance?
  • Is God unfair?
  • It is not an easy thing to change a sinful heart (but Christ can)
  • Miracles, even repeated miracles, will not by themselves suffice for faith
  • God is a God of grace and mercy
  • Humility or self-focus? Which opens the door to others and to God?

 

 

Posted on

Sixteenth Sunday after Pentecost, September 24, 2017, Proper 20, Year A

Please see How to Use Lection Connection

Full lections can be read here.

Based on the Readings as Set

First Reading (Exodus 16:2-15)

Just after being miraculously supplied with water in the wilderness, the Israelites grumble to Moses about their lack of food. They say it would have been better to have died in Egypt where they at least had lots to eat. Yahweh informs them that he is going to rain bread from heaven upon them every morning while each twilight would bring in a flock of quails. Once again he hears their complaints and responds with grace.

Psalm (105:1-6, 37-45)

The Psalmist exhorts Yahweh’s chosen people to seek his presence, remember his wonderful works on their behalf, and make him known among the nations. He is the one who brought them out of Egypt, provided for them in the wilderness, and took them into the promised land with joy and singing.

Second Reading (Philippians 1:21-30)

St. Paul, realizing that he is called to be of further service to the early Christian communities he has founded, reluctantly accepts any delay in being fully in Christ’s presence through death. He encourages the Philippians to live lives worthy of the Gospel and standing firm in the face of opposition and suffering, a struggle he continues to share with them.

Gospel (Matthew 20:1-16)

Jesus tells the parable of the vineyard owner who hires a number of workers early in the morning to work for the normal daily rate. He also hires others during various times of the day but only tells them he will pay them what is right. When he pays them all the same amount those who worked longer were angry. They felt shortchanged instead of being glad for the owner’s generosity to the others. In the Kingdom of God, says Jesus, the last shall be first and the first last.

CONNECTION SUGGESTIONS

  • Being content with the blessings we have
  • Why are we angry with God or others? Do we really have a case?
  • Being faithful in times of suffering means trusting in Christ and resisting the urge to complain
  • God always gives us more than we deserve (grace)
  • Living as God’s people does not mean we will not have to suffer

Based on the Alternative Set of Readings

First Reading (Jonah 3:10-4:11)

As Jonah had anticipated, because he is slow to anger and full of grace, mercy and steadfast love, Yahweh spares the repentant city of Nineveh from the destruction Jonah had announced. This makes him angry and he sits down to see what happens. Yahweh causes a plant to give him extra shade from the sun only to destroy it the next day. Again Jonah is angry and again says he would rather die than live. Yahweh contrasts his own concern for the immense and needy population of Nineveh with Jonah’s rage over an insignificant bush.

Psalm (145:1-8)

The Psalmist begins by affirming his intention to praise Yahweh for his surpassing majesty and his wonderful works, qualities for which he will be extolled by generations to come. They will sing of his goodness and righteousness, his grace and mercy, and his steadfast love and slowness to anger.

Second Reading (Philippians 1:21-30)

St. Paul, realizing that he is called to be of further service to the early Christian communities he has founded, reluctantly accepts any delay in being fully in Christ’s presence through death. He encourages the Philippians to live lives worthy of the Gospel and standing firm in the face of opposition and suffering, a struggle he continues to share with them.

Gospel (Matthew 20:1-16)

Jesus tells the parable of the vineyard owner who hires a number of workers early in the morning to work for the normal daily rate. He also hires others during various times of the day but only tells them he will pay them what is right. When he pays them all the same amount those who worked longer were angry. They felt shortchanged instead of being glad for the owner’s generosity to the others. In the Kingdom of God, says Jesus, the last shall be first and the first last.

CONNECTION SUGGESTIONS

  • Being content with the blessings we have
  • Why are we angry with God or others? Do we really have a case?
  • Being faithful in times of suffering means trusting in Christ and resisting the urge to complain
  • God always gives us more than we deserve (grace)
  • Living as God’s people does not mean we will not have to suffer
  • Like God we should be slow to anger
Posted on

Fifteenth Sunday after Pentecost, September 17, 2017, Proper 19, Year A

Please see How to Use Lection Connection

Full lections can be read here.

Based on the Readings as Set

First Reading (Exodus 14:19-31)

The angel and the pillar of cloud that had been leading Israel out of Egypt move to the end of the column and place themselves between the people and the pursuing Egyptian army. Confronting the Red Sea, Moses stretches out his hand and Yahweh has a strong wind part the water and make a dry path for their escape. Pharaoh follows but the waters close over his army while Israel learns to trust in Yahweh and his servant Moses.

Psalm (114)

The Psalmist celebrates the Exodus as the time when Yahweh began to dwell with Israel, and both the Red Sea and the Jordan River parted for their crossing. Even the mountains and the rivers resonate to his mighty saving acts. Indeed the whole earth trembles at his awesome presence.

OR

Exodus 15:1b-11, 20-21

The Song of Moses exults in the victory of Yahweh at the Red Sea where both horse and rider were cast into the sea. He gives full credit to Yahweh who proves himself in full control of nature and superior to any other gods. Miriam, sister to Moses and Aaron and a prophet herself, joins in the celebratory refrain.

Second Reading (Romans 14:1-12)

St. Paul, recognizing that those who are weak in faith need to be nourished in the Christian community, points out that they are welcomed and helped by God himself and should not be in any way despised by the “strong”. This applies especially to religious observances involving foods and holy days. We live unto the Lord and each should honour him as best we can. He is the one who will judge.

Gospel (Matthew 18:21-35)

In response to Peter’s question about the limits to forgiving our fellow Christians Jesus tells a parable about a king who decides to settle accounts with the slaves who handled his affairs. One of them owed a huge sum he could not cover and begged for mercy. When the king simply forgave him, he failed to extend any mercy to another slave who owed him a pittance. This greatly angered the King who had the man tortured for his behaviour. We can expect God to have the same attitude to those of us who refuse to forgive.

CONNECTION SUGGESTIONS

  • God is not subject to nature but in control of it
  • Nature is witness to the greatness of God
  • Judgment is real but it is in the hands of God, not our own
  • The importance of community life in the Kingdom
  • No limit to mercy extended to the penitent
  • Forgiveness and forbearance are to mark the Christian life
  • We are to extend to others what God has so much more extended to us

Based on the Alternative Set of Readings

First Reading (Genesis 50:15-21)

Joseph’s brothers had sold him into slavery in Egypt and now that their father Jacob is dead they are worried that he will take his revenge. So they tell Joseph that before he died their father had asked that he forgive them. Joseph wept when he heard this and they bowed down to him, calling themselves his slaves exactly as his dreams had predicted. He told them that although they had meant it for evil, God intended it for good.

Psalm (103:[1-7], 8-13)

This Psalm calls for the congregation to bless Yahweh for all he does in his loving kindness: forgives our sins; heals our diseases; gets us out of trouble; satisfies us with good. It is a merciful and gracious Yahweh who works justice for the oppressed and removes our sin far from us, not repaying us as we deserve.

Second Reading (Romans 14:1-12)

St. Paul, recognizing that those who are weak in faith need to be nourished in the Christian community, points out that they are welcomed and helped by God himself and should not be in any way despised by the “strong”. This applies especially to religious observances involving foods and holy days. We live unto the Lord and each should honour him as best we can. He is the one who will judge.

Gospel (Matthew 18:21-35)

In response to Peter’s question about the limits to forgiving our fellow Christians Jesus tells a parable about a king who decides to settle accounts with the slaves who handled his affairs. One of them owed a huge sum he could not cover and begged for mercy. When the king simply forgave him, he failed to extend any mercy to another slave who owed him a pittance. This greatly angered the King who had the man tortured for his behaviour. We can expect God to have the same attitude to those of us who refuse to forgive.

CONNECTION SUGGESTIONS

  • God is in control of the course of history
  • Judgment is real but it is in the hands of God, not our own
  • The importance of community life in the Kingdom
  • No limit to mercy extended to the penitent
  • Forgiveness and forbearance are to mark the Christian life
  • We are to extend to others what God has so much more extended to us

 

 

Posted on

Fourteenth Sunday after Pentecost, September 10, 2017, Proper 18, Year A

Please see How to Use Lection Connection

Full lections can be read here.

Based on the Readings as Set

First Reading (Exodus 12:1-14)

Nine plagues having failed to convince Pharaoh to release the Israelites, Yahweh tells Moses to prepare for one more: the death of all the firstborn males. Each Israelite household is to slaughter a lamb and smear the blood on the outside of its doorway to alert the angel of death to pass over it. The occasion will be the beginning of their new year and will be celebrated by reenacting this unique meal.

Psalm (149)

Calling upon the people to render joyful and melodic praise to their Maker and their King, the Psalmist reminds them that Yahweh takes pleasure in them, giving victory to the humble. At the same time they are to be ready to execute judgment on the nations at his bidding and for their glory.

Second Reading (Romans 13:8-14)

Like Jesus, St. Paul asserts the truth that to love one’s neighbour as oneself is to fulfill the law. He then points out that his readers’ ultimate salvation is nearer now than ever and they must wake up and live in its light, not giving themselves over to the debaucheries of the flesh. In other words, they must put on the Lord Jesus Christ and resist any inclinations to live contrary to him.

Gospel (Matthew 18:15-20)

Jesus gives specific directions on what to do if a fellow Christian sins against us. His stress is on winning the person back into the fellowship rather than on asserting our own rights. They need to be confronted with their sin within a widening circle of witnesses. Decisions made in this way, even to the point of ex-communication, have the awesome weight of heaven behind them.

CONNECTION SUGGESTIONS

  • The importance of dealing with sin through repentance and change
  • The deadly seriousness of sin
  • The importance of loving one another
  • God’s intentions, even in discipline, are for our good
  • New beginnings with God are possible
  • Bad news can be good news

Based on the Alternative Set of Readings

First Reading (Ezekiel 33:7-11)

Yahweh appoints Ezekiel as a watchman for the Israelites. He is to deliver Yahweh’s dire warnings to abandon their wicked ways or die in their sins. This is a heavy responsibility because unless he delivers the message he will share in the same fate. He is to tell them that while Yahweh does not take pleasure in the death of the wicked, he delights in seeing real repentance that leads to a changed life.

Psalm (119:33-40)

The Psalmist, appreciating that living as Yahweh demands is truly the way of life, expresses his desire to know, understand, and delight in the law. He realizes that to follow it faithfully he needs Yahweh to turn his heart away from wickedness of all kinds and grant him life.

Second Reading (Romans 13:8-14)

Like Jesus, St. Paul asserts the truth that to love one’s neighbour as oneself is to fulfill the law. He then points out that his readers’ ultimate salvation is nearer now than ever and they must wake up and live in its light, not giving themselves over to the debaucheries of the flesh. In other words, they must put on the Lord Jesus Christ and resist any inclinations to live contrary to him.

Gospel (Matthew 18:15-20)

Jesus gives specific directions on what to do if a fellow Christian sins against us. His stress is on winning the person back into the fellowship rather than on asserting our own rights. They need to be confronted with their sin within a widening circle of witnesses. Decisions made in this way, even to the point of ex-communication, have the awesome weight of heaven behind them.

CONNECTION SUGGESTIONS

  • The ways of God are the ways of life
  • The importance of dealing with sin through repentance and change
  • The deadly seriousness of sin
  • The importance of loving one another
  • God’s intentions, even in discipline, are for our good
  • Bad news can be good news

 

Posted on

Thirteenth Sunday after Pentecost, September 3, 2017, Proper 17, Year A

Please see How to Use Lection Connection

Full lections can be read here.

Based on the Readings as Set

First Reading (Exodus 3:1-15)

Yahweh mysteriously appears to Moses in the burning bush at Mt. Sinai, identifying himself as the God of the patriarchs, Abraham, Isaac and Jacob. He has heard the cry of his oppressed people back in Egypt and now he is going to send Moses to deliver the captives, leading them out to the Promised Land. The name by which he wishes to be known to them is simply “I AM WHO I AM”.

Psalm (105:1-6, 23-26, 45c)

The Psalmist encourages the people to remember Yahweh’s miracles and judgments and, while taking care to look to him alone, make his deeds known among the nations. He caused Israel to grow mightily even while persecuted in Egypt and sent Moses to deliver them so that they might serve him faithfully.

Second Reading (Romans 12:9-24)

St. Paul exhorts the Christian community to have genuine love for one another and serve the Lord faithfully especially when under persecution. Instead of taking revenge on their enemies themselves they are to put it into God’s hands, knowing that good will ultimately triumph over evil.

Gospel (Matthew 16:21-28)

Right after he had praised Peter for recognizing him as Messiah Jesus rebukes him for not understanding that suffering and death are ahead for both Messiah and his disciples. We are not to seek to save our lives, but to deny ourselves and follow Jesus, remembering that he will repay many times over in the resurrection.

CONNECTION SUGGESTIONS

• It is God who saves us, not we ourselves

• Doing good will triumph over evil

• Suffering is to be expected as part of the Christian life

• Relief from suffering is in God’s hands

• We are to follow in God’s ways in all circumstances, loving God, fellow Christians and our enemies

• The need to remain faithful, especially under pressure to conform to this world

Based on the Alternative Set of Readings

First Reading (Jeremiah 15:15-21)

Jeremiah makes his case to Yahweh, asking that his persecutors suffer retribution. He claims to have been faithful but his suffering is growing worse, making him wonder if Yahweh will fail him. Yahweh, on the other hand, sees a need for Jeremiah to turn back to God in order to be restored to his calling and delivered from his foes.

Psalm (26:1-8)

Because he has been faithful in his walk, the Psalmist expects vindication from Yahweh. He even challenges Yahweh to test him in his innocence. He has not kept company with sinners, but has joined the procession of praise and thanksgiving around the altar instead. He loves the house of God because of the divine presence that is gloriously evident there.

Second Reading (Romans 9:1-5)

St. Paul exhorts the Christian community to have genuine love for one another and serve the Lord faithfully especially when under persecution. Instead of taking revenge on their enemies themselves they are to put it into God’s hands, knowing that good will ultimately triumph over evil.

Gospel (Matthew 14:13-21)

Right after he had praised Peter for recognizing him as Messiah Jesus rebukes him for not understanding that suffering and death are ahead for both Messiah and his disciples. We are not to seek to save our lives, but to deny ourselves and follow Jesus, remembering that he will repay many times over in the resurrection.

CONNECTION SUGGESTIONS

• It is God who saves us, not we ourselves

• Doing good will triumph over evil

• Suffering is to be expected as part of the Christian life

• Relief from suffering is in God’s hands

• We are to follow in God’s ways in all circumstances, loving God, fellow Christians and our enemies

• The need to remain faithful, especially under pressure to conform to this world

Posted on

Twelfth Sunday after Pentecost, August 27, 2017, Proper 16, Year A

Please see How to Use Lection Connection

Full lections can be read here.

Based on the Readings as Set

First Reading (Exodus 1:8-2:10)

Three hundred years after the death of Joseph the Israelites are still in Egypt and have become a numerous and powerful people. Pharaoh severely oppresses them and tries to limit them by destroying all their male babies. Their midwives frustrate him and when one Levite woman sets her newborn son in a waterproof basket on the Nile, his own daughter finds him and arranges to save the child through the intervention of his quick-witted sister. His name is Moses.

Psalm (124)

The Psalmist encourages Israel to remember that it was Yahweh alone who delivered them from the raging flood of their enemies. They escaped like a bird from a broken snare because Yahweh, the creator of all, is their help.

Second Reading (Romans 12:1-8)

St. Paul affirms that true worship includes presenting our entire beings, body and soul, unto the Lord. We are not to be conformed to this world but transformed by the renewing of our minds. This means acting in humility and sobriety, knowing that we all have been given gifts of grace enabling the whole church to carry out its purpose as an effective unit.

Gospel (Matthew 16:13-20)

While many of his contemporaries think that Jesus must be one of the prophets of old, Peter identifies him as “Messiah, Son of the living God”. Jesus blesses him for this divine insight and affirms that Peter is the rock on which his church will be built. It will be able to attack and destroy even hell itself and its earthly actions will even be reflected in heaven. He then instructs the disciples that they are to keep quiet about his identity.

CONNECTION SUGGESTIONS

  • God delivers his people from their enemies
  • No foe is superior to God
  • The importance of everyone, from greatest to least, doing their part
  • God’s people need leaders and followers both
  • The people of God carry out the purposes of God
  • The importance of humility

Based on the Alternative Set of Readings

First Reading (Isaiah 51:1-6)

Isaiah calls for those who seek Yahweh and his righteousness to look back to Abraham and Sarah as the example of how Yahweh is faithful. He will bring about a joyful restoration of the land of Israel and its people will sing their thanksgivings. This mighty act of salvation will be so all-encompassing that the nations will be included and even the present cosmos will pass away.

Psalm (138)

The Psalmist thanks Yahweh for his faithfulness in answering his prayer. All the rulers of the earth shall praise Yahweh when they see how the lowly are exalted instead of the mighty. Such things inspire confidence in Yahweh’s continuing care and his ability to accomplish his purposes in the life of the Psalmist.

Second Reading (Romans 12:1-8)

St. Paul affirms that true worship includes presenting our entire beings, body and soul, unto the Lord. We are not to be conformed to this world but transformed by the renewing of our minds. This means acting in humility and sobriety, knowing that we all have been given gifts of grace enabling the whole church to carry out its purpose as an effective unit.

Gospel (Matthew 16:13-20)

While many of his contemporaries think that Jesus must be one of the prophets of old, Peter identifies him as “Messiah, Son of the living God”. Jesus blesses him for this divine insight and affirms that Peter is the rock on which his church will be built. It will be able to attack and destroy even hell itself and its earthly actions will even be reflected in heaven. He then instructs the disciples that they are to keep quiet about his identity.

CONNECTION SUGGESTIONS

  • The salvation of God’s people will attract the attention of others
  • The importance for faith of looking at examples from the past
  • God delivers his people from their enemies
  • No foe is superior to God
  • The importance of everyone, from greatest to least, doing their part
  • God’s people need leaders and followers both
  • The importance of humility