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Full lections can be read here.
Based on the Readings as Set
First Reading (2 Samuel 18:5-9, 15, 31-33)
David’s son Absalom leads a rebellion against his father and his forces are roundly defeated. Against David’s instructions, Absalom is killed by some soldiers after his hair gets entangled in a tree. David is heartbroken and greatly laments the death of his son.
Psalm (130)
In despair, the Psalmist cries out to the Lord, knowing that while he is unable hide his sin, the Lord is a forgiving God. Waiting upon the Lord, he hopes in his word and encourages Israel to do likewise, confident in the Lord’s love and power to redeem.
Second Reading (Ephesians 4:25-5:2)
Paul exhorts members of the body of Christ to conduct themselves as children of God. Putting their anger behind them, their talk should be grace-filled, building one another up. As they have been forgiven by God in Christ, so also should they forgive others.
Gospel (John 6:35, 41-51)
Some Jews, hearing Jesus claim to be the bread of life, take offence at him because they know his earthly family. Jesus says only those drawn to him by the Father can come to him and receive eternal life. His flesh is the living bread he gives for the life of the world.
CONNECTION SUGGESTIONS
- God is the God who gives life in its fullness
- Family relationships, both earthly and spiritual, are important to God and to us
- God is in the forgiving business and we should be also
- Sin brings despair, death, and destruction in its wake
Based on the Alternative Readings
First Reading (1 Kings 19:4-8)
On the run from the wicked queen Jezebel, Elijah escapes into the wilderness. Despairing of his life, he encounters an angel who provides him with food and water. It is enough to last him for forty days and nights as he makes his way to the mount of God.
Psalm (34:1-8)
The Psalmist praises the Lord and exhorts others to do the same because his prayer has been answered and deliverance has come. He knows that the angel of the Lord will be with those who look to him in their trouble. Those who do so will indeed be happy.
Second Reading (Ephesians 4:25-5:2)
Paul exhorts members of the body of Christ to conduct themselves as children of God. Putting their anger behind them, their talk should be grace-filled, building one another up. As they have been forgiven by God in Christ, so also should they forgive others.
Gospel (John 6:35, 41-51)
Some Jews, hearing Jesus claim to be the bread of life, take offence at him because they know his earthly family. Jesus says only those drawn to him by the Father can come to him and receive eternal life. His flesh is the living bread he gives for the life of the world.
CONNECTION SUGGESTIONS
- God is the God who gives life in its fullness
- God is in the forgiving business and we should be also
- Sin brings despair, death, and destruction in its wake
- God provides the kind of food we need.