Please see How to Use Lection Connection . If used as an introduction during worship, a suggested format can be found here.
Full lections can be read here.
Based on the Readings as Set
First Reading (Exodus 20:1-17)
The people listen on Mount Sinai as YAHWEH gives the 10 Commandments for the first time. He begins recounting his saving them from slavery in Egypt and demands their allegiance to him alone and then lays out how he wants them to live as his people.
Psalm (19)
The Psalmist insists that the heavens wordlessly speak volumes in glory to God. Like the circling sun warms the earth each day so the law of YAHWEH revives our soul, lightens our way and exposes our faults. It is both essential and delightful to the faithful heart.
Second Reading (1 Corinthians 1:18-25)
St. Paul reflects on the great paradox of the Cross: it seems a sign of weakness to Jews seeking signs of God’s power, and foolishness to Greeks seeking human wisdom. However, to those called, it actually demonstrates God’s supreme power and wisdom.
Gospel (John 2:13-22)
Jesus enters the Temple and is angry at the way it has become a busy market of people selling animals for sacrifice. His disciples then recall prophecy that Messiah was to have such zeal for God’s house. Jesus then speaks mysteriously of his body as the Temple.
CONNECTION SUGGESTIONS
- The overarching wisdom and power of God
- In our weakness and foolishness, we are lost in the world without divine guidance
- Holiness is demanded of those who would draw close to God
- God’s way is a delight to those he has called but a puzzle to those living only on a worldly plane
- The evidence of God’s wisdom and power is all around for those with eyes to see