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February 2, 2025 – Candlemas – Presentation of Jesus at the Temple

Scriptures NRSV-A:

 

First Reading: Malachi 3:1-4 (Pew Bible page 778)

1 See, I am sending my messenger to prepare the way before me, and the Lord whom you seek will suddenly come to his temple. The messenger of the covenant in whom you delight—indeed, he is coming, says the Lord of hosts. 2 But who can endure the day of his coming, and who can stand when he appears?

For he is like a refiner’s fire and like fullers’ soap; 3 he will sit as a refiner and purifier of silver, and he will purify the descendants of Levi and refine them like gold and silver, until they present offerings to the Lord in righteousness 4 Then the offering of Judah and Jerusalem will be pleasing to the Lord as in the days of old and as in former years. [NRSV-A]

 

Psalm: Psalm 24:7-10

7   Lift up your heads, O gates;

lift them high, O everlasting doors; *

and the King of glory shall come in.

8   “Who is this King of glory?” *

“The Lord, strong and mighty,

the Lord, mighty in battle.”

9   Lift up your heads, O gates;

lift them high, O everlasting doors; *

and the King of glory shall come in.

10 “Who is he, this King of glory?” *

“The Lord of hosts,

he is the King of glory.”

 

Second Reading: Hebrews 2:14-18 (Pew Bible page 971)

14 Since, therefore, the children share flesh and blood, he himself likewise shared the same things, so that through death he might destroy the one who has the power of death, that is, the devil, 15 and free those who all their lives were held in slavery by the fear of death. 16 For it is clear that he did not come to help angels, but the descendants of Abraham. 17 Therefore he had to become like his brothers and sisters[a] in every respect, so that he might be a merciful and faithful high priest in the service of God, to make a sacrifice of atonement for the sins of the people. 18 Because he himself was tested by what he suffered, he is able to help those who are being tested. [NRSV-A]

 

The Holy Gospel: Luke 2:22-40 (Pew Bible page 833)

22 When the time came for their purification according to the law of Moses, they brought him up to Jerusalem to present him to the Lord 23 (as it is written in the law of the Lord, ‘Every firstborn male shall be designated as holy to the Lord’), 24 and they offered a sacrifice according to what is stated in the law of the Lord, ‘a pair of turtle-doves or two young pigeons.’

25 Now there was a man in Jerusalem whose name was Simeon;[a] this man was righteous and devout, looking forward to the consolation of Israel, and the Holy Spirit rested on him. 26 It had been revealed to him by the Holy Spirit that he would not see death before he had seen the Lord’s Messiah.[b] 27 Guided by the Spirit, Simeon[c] came into the temple; and when the parents brought in the child Jesus, to do for him what was customary under the law, 28 Simeon[d] took him in his arms and praised God, saying,

29 ‘Master, now you are dismissing your servant[e] in peace,
   according to your word;
30 for my eyes have seen your salvation,
31     which you have prepared in the presence of all peoples,
32 a light for revelation to the Gentiles
   and for glory to your people Israel.’

33 And the child’s father and mother were amazed at what was being said about him. 34 Then Simeon[f] blessed them and said to his mother Mary, ‘This child is destined for the falling and the rising of many in Israel, and to be a sign that will be opposed 35 so that the inner thoughts of many will be revealed—and a sword will pierce your own soul too.’

36 There was also a prophet, Anna[g] the daughter of Phanuel, of the tribe of Asher. She was of a great age, having lived with her husband for seven years after her marriage, 37 then as a widow to the age of eighty-four. She never left the temple but worshipped there with fasting and prayer night and day. 38 At that moment she came, and began to praise God and to speak about the child[h] to all who were looking for the redemption of Jerusalem.

39 When they had finished everything required by the law of the Lord, they returned to Galilee, to their own town of Nazareth. 40 The child grew and became strong, filled with wisdom; and the favour of God was upon him.  [NRSV-A]

January 19, 2025 – The 2ND Sunday after Epiphany

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Notes on Today’s Scripture Readings

Isaiah 62:1-5   Persia has conquered Babylon and has permitted the people of Israel to return to a small parcel of land round Jerusalem. The land is ravished, and after initial elation, the people feel that God has ceased to care for them. Now God breaks his silence.

1 Corinthians 12:1-11   Early in this letter, Paul has noted that the Christians at Corinth “are not lacking in any spiritual gift”; even so, they appear to have written to him on the subject. He now teaches them more about gifts provided through the Holy Spirit.

John 2:1-11   John uses symbolism extensively in his telling of the good news. As he says near the end of the book, “these signs are written so that you may come to believe that Jesus is the Messiah, the Son of God, and that through believing you may have life in his name.” Now John tells us of the first sign, revealing Jesus' glory.                                                       © 1996-2022 Chris Haslam

 

First Reading: Isaiah 62:1-5 (Pew Bible page 604)

1 For Zion’s sake I will not keep silent,
   and for Jerusalem’s sake I will not rest,
until her vindication shines out like the dawn,
   and her salvation like a burning torch.
2 The nations shall see your vindication,
   and all the kings your glory;
and you shall be called by a new name
   that the mouth of the Lord will give.
3 You shall be a crown of beauty in the hand of the Lord,
   and a royal diadem in the hand of your God.
4 You shall no more be termed Forsaken,
   and your land shall no more be termed Desolate;
but you shall be called My Delight Is in Her,
   and your land Married;
for the Lord delights in you,
   and your land shall be married.
5 For as a young man marries a young woman,
   so shall your builder marry you,
and as the bridegroom rejoices over the bride,
   so shall your God rejoice over you. [NRSV-A]

 

Psalm: Psalm 36:5-10

5   Your love, O Lord, reaches to the heavens, *

and your faithfulness to the clouds.

6   Your righteousness is like the strong mountains,

your justice like the great deep; *

you save both man and beast, O Lord.

7   How priceless is your love, O God! *

your people take refuge under the shadow of your wings.

8   They feast upon the abundance of your house; *

you give them drink from the river of your delights.

9   For with you is the well of life, *

and in your light we see light.

10 Continue your loving-kindness to those who know   you, *

and your favour to those who are true of heart.

 

Second Reading: 1 Corinthians 12:1-11 (Pew Bible page 933)

1 Now concerning spiritual gifts, brothers and sisters, I do not want you to be uninformed. 2 You know that when you were pagans, you were enticed and led astray to idols that could not speak. 3 Therefore I want you to understand that no one speaking by the Spirit of God ever says ‘Let Jesus be cursed!’ and no one can say ‘Jesus is Lord’ except by the Holy Spirit.

4 Now there are varieties of gifts, but the same Spirit; 5 and there are varieties of services, but the same Lord; 6 and there are varieties of activities, but it is the same God who activates all of them in everyone. 7 To each is given the manifestation of the Spirit for the common good. 8 To one is given through the Spirit the utterance of wisdom, and to another the utterance of knowledge according to the same Spirit, 9 to another faith by the same Spirit, to another gifts of healing by the one Spirit, 10 to another the working of miracles, to another prophecy, to another the discernment of spirits, to another various kinds of tongues, to another the interpretation of tongues. 11 All these are activated by one and the same Spirit, who allots to each one individually just as the Spirit chooses. [NRSV-A]

 

The Holy Gospel: John 2:1-11 (Pew Bible page 863)

1 On the third day there was a wedding in Cana of Galilee, and the mother of Jesus was there. 2 Jesus and his disciples had also been invited to the wedding. 3 When the wine gave out, the mother of Jesus said to him, ‘They have no wine.’ 

4 And Jesus said to her, ‘Woman, what concern is that to you and to me? My hour has not yet come.’ 

5 His mother said to the servants, ‘Do whatever he tells you.’ 

6 Now standing there were six stone water-jars for the Jewish rites of purification, each holding twenty or thirty gallons. 

7 Jesus said to them, ‘Fill the jars with water.’ And they filled them up to the brim. 

8 He said to them, ‘Now draw some out, and take it to the chief steward.’ So they took it. 

9 When the steward tasted the water that had become wine, and did not know where it came from (though the servants who had drawn the water knew), the steward called the bridegroom 10 and said to him, ‘Everyone serves the good wine first, and then the inferior wine after the guests have become drunk. But you have kept the good wine until now.’ 

11 Jesus did this, the first of his signs, in Cana of Galilee, and revealed his glory; and his disciples believed in him. [NRSV-A]

​​

January 12, 2025 – The Baptism of our Lord

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​Notes on Today’s Scripture Readings

Isaiah 43:1-7   Judah has complained that God has deserted them, his people, in the destruction of Jerusalem and in their exile. God asks, through the prophet, “Who among you ... will attend and listen for the time to come?”

Acts 8:14-17   Philip, one of the seven chosen to ensure the welfare of widows, has proclaimed the good news in Samaria. Many have listened to what he has to say; some have been healed. Many have been baptised.

Luke 3:15-17,21-22   People flock to John the Baptist, responding to his urging to start new, ethical lives – as a way of preparing for Jesus. John has condemned those who seek his baptism with no intention of reforming their ways. Failure to respond to his call to repentance can lead to condemnation at the end of time.                                    © 1996-2024 Chris Haslam

First Reading: Isaiah 43:1-7 (Pew Bible page 585)

1 But now thus says the Lord,
   he who created you, O Jacob,
   he who formed you, O Israel:
Do not fear, for I have redeemed you;
   I have called you by name, you are mine.
2 When you pass through the waters, I will be with you;
   and through the rivers, they shall not overwhelm you;
when you walk through fire you shall not be burned,
   and the flame shall not consume you.
3 For I am the Lord your God,
   the Holy One of Israel, your Saviour.
I give Egypt as your ransom,
   Ethiopia and Seba in exchange for you.
4 Because you are precious in my sight,
   and honoured, and I love you,
I give people in return for you,
   nations in exchange for your life.
5 Do not fear, for I am with you;
   I will bring your offspring from the east,
   and from the west I will gather you;
6 I will say to the north, ‘Give them up’,
   and to the south, ‘Do not withhold;
bring my sons from far away
   and my daughters from the end of the earth—
7 everyone who is called by my name,
   whom I created for my glory,
   whom I formed and made.’ [NRSV-A]

 

Psalm: Psalm 29:1-4, 10-11 

1   Ascribe to the Lord, you gods, *

ascribe to the Lord glory and strength.

2   Ascribe to the Lord the glory due his name; *

worship the Lord in the beauty of holiness.

3   The voice of the Lord is upon the waters;

the God of glory thunders; *

the Lord is upon the mighty waters.

4   The voice of the Lord is a powerful voice; *

the voice of the Lord is a voice of splendour.

10 The Lord sits enthroned above the flood; *

the Lord sits enthroned as king for evermore.

11 The Lord shall give strength to his people; *

the Lord shall give his people the blessing of peace.

 

Second Reading: Acts 8:14-17 (Pew Bible page 892)

14 Now when the apostles at Jerusalem heard that Samaria had accepted the word of God, they sent Peter and John to them. 15 The two went down and prayed for them that they might receive the Holy Spirit 16 (for as yet the Spirit had not come upon any of them; they had only been baptized in the name of the Lord Jesus). 17 Then Peter and John laid their hands on them, and they received the Holy Spirit. [NRSV-A]

 

The Holy Gospel: Luke 3:15-17, 21-22 (Pew Bible page 834)

15 As the people were filled with expectation, and all were questioning in their hearts concerning John, whether he might be the Messiah, 16 John answered all of them by saying, ‘I baptize you with water; but one who is more powerful than I is coming; I am not worthy to untie the thong of his sandals. He will baptize you with the Holy Spirit and fire. 17 His winnowing-fork is in his hand, to clear his threshing-floor and to gather the wheat into his granary; but the chaff he will burn with unquenchable fire.’

  21 Now when all the people were baptized, and when Jesus also had been baptized and was praying, the heaven was opened, 22 and the Holy Spirit descended upon him in bodily form like a dove. And a voice came from heaven, ‘You are my Son, the Beloved; with you I am well pleased.’  [NRSV-A]

January 5, 2025 – The Epiphany

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Notes on Today’s Scripture Readings

Isaiah 60:1-6   Darius, King of Persia, has permitted the people of Israel to return to Jerusalem. The prophet tells the people to arise, for joy, prosperity and salvation are now in the city; God is with them; they will reflect the presence and power of God.

Ephesians 3:1-12   It is part of God’s plan that both Jews and Gentiles are called to share in Christ’s saving activity. This is the “mystery of Christ”. Paul’s insistence on Gentiles being full and equal members of the church has led to his imprisonment.

Matthew 2:1-12   “Wise men” (in Latin: magi) were members of a Persian caste of astrologers and interpreters of dreams. Astrology was widely accepted then. A star was associated with each person; the way the star rose told the wise men that a king had been born. A later church tradition called the wise men kings.  © 1996-2022 Chris Haslam

 

First Reading: Isaiah 60:1-6 (Pew Bible page 602)

1 Arise, shine; for your light has come,
   and the glory of the Lord has risen upon you.
2 For darkness shall cover the earth,
   and thick darkness the peoples;
but the Lord will arise upon you,
   and his glory will appear over you.
3 Nations shall come to your light,
   and kings to the brightness of your dawn.

4 Lift up your eyes and look around;
   they all gather together, they come to you;
your sons shall come from far away,
   and your daughters shall be carried on their nurses’ arms.
5 Then you shall see and be radiant;
   your heart shall thrill and rejoice,
because the abundance of the sea shall be brought to you,
   the wealth of the nations shall come to you.
6 A multitude of camels shall cover you,
   the young camels of Midian and Ephah;
   all those from Sheba shall come.
They shall bring gold and frankincense,
   and shall proclaim the praise of the Lord.    [NRSV-A]

 

Psalm: 72:1-7, 10-14 (BAS page 797)

1   Give the king your justice, O God, *

and your righteousness to the king’s son;

2   That he may rule your people righteously *

and the poor with justice;

3   That the mountains may bring prosperity to the people, *

and the little hills bring righteousness.

4   He shall defend the needy among the people; *

he shall rescue the poor and crush the oppressor.

5   He shall live as long as the sun and moon endure, *

from one generation to another.

6   He shall come down like rain upon the mown field, *

like showers that water the earth.

7   In his time shall the righteous flourish; *

there shall be abundance of peace till the moon shall be no more.

10   The kings of Tarshish and of the isles shall pay tribute, *

and the kings of Arabia and Saba offer gifts.

11    All kings shall bow down before him, *

and all the nations do him service.

12   For he shall deliver the poor who cries out in distress, *

and the oppressed who has no helper.

13    He shall have pity on the lowly and poor; *

he shall preserve the lives of the needy.

14   He shall redeem their lives from oppression and violence, *

and dear shall their blood be in his sight.

 

Second Reading: Ephesians 3:1-12 (Pew Bible page 950)

 1This is the reason that I Paul am a prisoner for Christ Jesus for the sake of you Gentiles— 2 for surely you have already heard of the commission of God’s grace that was given to me for you, 3 and how the mystery was made known to me by revelation, as I wrote above in a few words, 4 a reading of which will enable you to perceive my understanding of the mystery of Christ. 5 In former generations this mystery was not made known to humankind, as it has now been revealed to his holy apostles and prophets by the Spirit: 6 that is, the Gentiles have become fellow-heirs, members of the same body, and sharers in the promise in Christ Jesus through the gospel.

7 Of this gospel I have become a servant according to the gift of God’s grace that was given to me by the working of his power. 8 Although I am the very least of all the saints, this grace was given to me to bring to the Gentiles the news of the boundless riches of Christ, 9 and to make everyone see what is the plan of the mystery hidden for ages in God who created all things; 10 so that through the church the wisdom of God in its rich variety might now be made known to the rulers and authorities in the heavenly places. 11 This was in accordance with the eternal purpose that he has carried out in Christ Jesus our Lord, 12 in whom we have access to God in boldness and confidence through faith in him.  [NRSV-A]

 

The Holy Gospel: Matthew 2:1-12 (Pew Bible page 783)

 1This is the reason that I Paul am a prisoner for Christ Jesus for the sake of you Gentiles— 2 for surely you have already heard of the commission of God’s grace that was given to me for you, 3 and how the mystery was made known to me by revelation, as I wrote above in a few words, 4 a reading of which will enable you to perceive my understanding of the mystery of Christ. 5 In former generations this mystery was not made known to humankind, as it has now been revealed to his holy apostles and prophets by the Spirit: 6 that is, the Gentiles have become fellow-heirs, members of the same body, and sharers in the promise in Christ Jesus through the gospel.

7 Of this gospel I have become a servant according to the gift of God’s grace that was given to me by the working of his power. 8 Although I am the very least of all the saints, this grace was given to me to bring to the Gentiles the news of the boundless riches of Christ, 9 and to make everyone see what is the plan of the mystery hidden for ages in God who created all things; 10 so that through the church the wisdom of God in its rich variety might now be made known to the rulers and authorities in the heavenly places. 11 This was in accordance with the eternal purpose that he has carried out in Christ Jesus our Lord, 12 in whom we have access to God in boldness and confidence through faith in him. [NRSV-A]

December 29, 2024 – 1st Sunday after Christmas

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Notes on Today’s Scripture Readings

1 Samuel 2:18-20,26   After many years of barrenness, Hannah has been given a son by God. She has vowed that she will dedicate him to the service of the Lord, and accordingly has placed him under the tutelage of Eli, the priest of the temple at Shiloh.

Colossians 3:12-17   The author continues to describe the lifestyle which is expected of Christians. His readers, perhaps newly baptised, have “stripped off the old self and its practices” and “have clothed ... [themselves] with the new self, which is being renewed in knowledge according to the image of its creator”.

Luke 2:41-52   This is the only passage in the Bible that tells of Jesus’ boyhood. Jewish men (and perhaps women and children) were expected to make a pilgrimage to Jerusalem for the Passover. Jesus continues to grow in many ways: he not only listens to experts in Jewish law, but even asks them questions.                © 1996-2022 Chris Haslam

First Reading: 1 Samuel 2:18-20

The Child Samuel at Shiloh

18 Samuel was ministering before the Lord, a boy wearing a linen ephod. 19 His mother used to make for him a little robe and take it to him each year when she went up with her husband to offer the yearly sacrifice. 20 Then Eli would bless Elkanah and his wife and say, “May the Lord repay[a] you with children by this woman for the loan that she made to[b] the Lord,” and then they would return to their home.

 

Psalm: Psalm148:1-6, 13-14

Praise the Lord!
1 Praise the Lord from the heavens;
   praise him in the heights!
2 Praise him, all his angels;
   praise him, all his host!

3 Praise him, sun and moon;
   praise him, all you shining stars!
4 Praise him, you highest heavens
   and you waters above the heavens!

5 Let them praise the name of the Lord,
   for he commanded and they were created.
6 He established them forever and ever;
   he fixed their bounds, which cannot be passed.[a]

13 Let them praise the name of the Lord, for his name alone is exalted;

   his glory is above earth and heaven.

14 He has raised up a horn for his people, praise for all his faithful,

   for the people of Israel who are close to him.

Praise the Lord!

Second Reading: Colossians 3:12-17

12 Therefore, as God’s chosen ones, holy and beloved, clothe yourselves with compassion, kindness, humility, meekness, and patience. 13 Bear with one another and, if anyone has a complaint against another, forgive each other; just as the Lord[a] has forgiven you, so you also must forgive. 14 Above all, clothe yourselves with love, which binds everything together in perfect harmony. 15 And let the peace of Christ[b] rule in your hearts, to which indeed you were called in one body. And be thankful. 16 Let the word of Christ[c] dwell in you richly; teach and admonish one another in all wisdom; and with gratitude in your hearts sing psalms, hymns, and spiritual songs to God.[d] 17 And whatever you do, in word or deed, do everything in the name of the Lord Jesus, giving thanks to God the Father through him.

Footnotes

  1. 3.13 Other ancient authorities read just as Christ

  2. 3.15 Other ancient authorities read of God

  3. 3.16 Other ancient authorities read of God or of the Lord

  4. 3.16 Other ancient authorities read to the Lord

 

The Holy Gospel: Luke 2:41-52

The Boy Jesus in the Temple

41 Now every year his parents went to Jerusalem for the festival of the Passover. 42 And when he was twelve years old, they went up as usual for the festival. 43 When the festival was ended and they started to return, the boy Jesus stayed behind in Jerusalem, but his parents were unaware of this. 44 Assuming that he was in the group of travelers, they went a day’s journey. Then they started to look for him among their relatives and friends. 45 When they did not find him, they returned to Jerusalem to search for him. 46 After three days they found him in the temple, sitting among the teachers, listening to them and asking them questions. 47 And all who heard him were amazed at his understanding and his answers. 48 When his parents[a] saw him they were astonished, and his mother said to him, “Child, why have you treated us like this? Your father and I have been anxiously looking for you.” 49 He said to them, “Why were you searching for me? Did you not know that I must be in my Father’s house?”[b] 50 But they did not understand what he said to them. 51 Then he went down with them and came to Nazareth and was obedient to them, and his mother treasured all these things in her heart.

52 And Jesus increased in wisdom and in years[c] and in divine and human favor.

Footnotes

  1. 2.48 Gk they

  2. 2.49 Or be about my Father’s interests?

  3. 2.52 Or in stature

December 8, 2024 – 2nd Sunday of Advent

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FOR OUR WORSHIP AND LEARNING

Notes on Today’s Scripture Readings

 

Malachi 3:1-4   Malachi is a book of prophecy directed to the priests in the Temple. Priests have replaced kings as those closest to God on earth, but the priesthood is corrupt. The prophet speaks in God’s name.

Philippians 1:3-11   In the verses following the salutation of the letter, Paul thanks God for the Christians at Philippi, for sharing in the community of faith ever since their conversion. He expresses confidence that God will complete, at the end of the era, the transformation to godliness already begun in them.

Luke 3:1-6   In language first used in the book of Isaiah to foretell the return of the Israelites from exile, Luke tells us that John the Baptist’s mission is to prepare the way for Jesus, by inviting people to make new starts in life, to live ethically from now on.                 © 1996-2024 Chris Haslam

First Reading: Malachi 3:1-4 (Pew Bible page 778)

1 See, I am sending my messenger to prepare the way before me, and the Lord whom you seek will suddenly come to his temple. The messenger of the covenant in whom you delight—indeed, he is coming, says the Lord of hosts. 2 But who can endure the day of his coming, and who can stand when he appears?

For he is like a refiner’s fire and like fullers’ soap; 3 he will sit as a refiner and purifier of silver, and he will purify the descendants of Levi and refine them like gold and silver, until they present offerings to the Lord in righteousness.[a] 4 Then the offering of Judah and Jerusalem will be pleasing to the Lord as in the days of old and as in former years.  [NRSV-A]

 

Benedictus (Luke 1:68-79) “We Bless you, God of Israel” CP 12

1   We bless you, God of Israel;

you come to set your people free.

In Jesus, born of David’s line,

salvation springs for all to see.

 

2   You promised through the prophets’ word

to save your people from their foes;

in freedom they will worship you,

fearless, delivered from their woes.

 

3   This child will go before the Lord,

the vanguard of Messiah’s way,

preaching forgiveness full and free

the prelude to God’s perfect day.

 

4   Your tender love, like early dawn,

heralds the day of endless peace;

the darkness of death’s shadow fades;

your justice reigns, and will not cease.

   Text paraphrase of Luke 1:68-79 (Benedictus) para. Paul Gibson (1932-2022)

      Tune St. Venantius, harm. Ralph Vaughan Williams (1872-1958)

 

Second Reading: Philippians 1:3-11 (Pew Bible page 953)

3 I thank my God every time I remember you, 4 constantly praying with joy in every one of my prayers for all of you, 5 because of your sharing in the gospel from the first day until now. 6 I am confident of this, that the one who began a good work among you will bring it to completion by the day of Jesus Christ. 7 It is right for me to think this way about all of you, because you hold me in your heart,[a] for all of you share in God’s grace[b] with me, both in my imprisonment and in the defence and confirmation of the gospel. 8 For God is my witness, how I long for all of you with the compassion of Christ Jesus. 9 And this is my prayer, that your love may overflow more and more with knowledge and full insight 10 to help you to determine what is best, so that on the day of Christ you may be pure and blameless, 11 having produced the harvest of righteousness that comes through Jesus Christ for the glory and praise of God.    [NRSV-A]

 

The Holy Gospel: Luke 3:1-6 (Pew Bible page 834)

1  In the fifteenth year of the reign of Emperor Tiberius, when Pontius Pilate was governor of Judea, and Herod was ruler[a] of Galilee, and his brother Philip ruler[b] of the region of Ituraea and Trachonitis, and Lysanias ruler[c] of Abilene, 2 during the high-priesthood of Annas and Caiaphas, the word of God came to John son of Zechariah in the wilderness. 3 He went into all the region around the Jordan, proclaiming a baptism of repentance for the forgiveness of sins, 4 as it is written in the book of the words of the prophet Isaiah,

‘The voice of one crying out in the wilderness:
“Prepare the way of the Lord, make his paths straight.
5 Every valley shall be filled,
   and every mountain and hill shall be made low,
and the crooked shall be made straight,
   and the rough ways made smooth;
6 and all flesh shall see the salvation of God.”   [NRSV-A]

December 1, 2024 – 1st Sunday of Advent

Scriptures NRSV-A:

Notes on Today’s Scripture Readings

 

Jeremiah 33:14-16   Jeremiah spoke of God’s love for humankind at a time when the citizens of Jerusalem had suffered great adversity. He has predicted that the city will be rebuilt. Now he foretells that the line of kings of which David was the founder will continue.

1 Thessalonians 3:9-13   Paul has heard of the persecution of Christians living in Thessalonica. He has sent Timothy to comfort them in their adversity. Timothy has returned with news of the steadfastness of their love for Christ and for one another, and also for him as he faces persecution.

Luke 21:25-36   Our reading is part of Jesus’ answer to two questions: when will the Temple is destroyed? What signs will there be that this is about to happen? People expected calamities at the end of the age, but Jesus tells us that he – the Son of Man – will come from heaven at that time.  © 1996-2024 Chris Haslam

First Reading: Jeremiah 33:14-16 (Pew Bible page 645)

14 The days are surely coming, says the Lord, when I will fulfil the promise I made to the house of Israel and the house of Judah. 15 In those days and at that time I will cause a righteous Branch to spring up for David; and he shall execute justice and righteousness in the land. 16 In those days Judah will be saved and Jerusalem will live in safety. And this is the name by which it will be called: ‘The Lord is our righteousness.’  [NRSV-A]

 

Psalm: Psalm 25: 1-10

1   To you, O Lord, I lift up my soul;

my God, I put my trust in you; *

let me not be humiliated,

nor let my enemies triumph over me.

2   Let none who look to you be put to shame; *

let the treacherous be disappointed in their schemes.

3   Show me your ways, O Lord, *

and teach me your paths.

4   Lead me in your truth and teach me, *

for you are the God of my salvation;

in you have I trusted all the day long.

5   Remember, O Lord, your compassion and love, *

for they are from everlasting.

6   Remember not the sins of my youth and my transgressions; *

remember me according to your love

and for the sake of your goodness, O Lord.

7   Gracious and upright is the Lord; *

therefore he teaches sinners in his way.

8   He guides the humble in doing right *

and teaches his way to the lowly.

9   All the paths of the Lord are love and faithfulness *

to those who keep his covenant and his testimonies.

10 For your name’s sake, O Lord, *

forgive my sin, for it is great.

 

Second Reading: 1 Thessalonians 3:9-13  Pew Bible p. 960

9 How can we thank God enough for you in return for all the joy that we feel before our God because of you? 10 Night and day we pray most earnestly that we may see you face to face and restore whatever is lacking in your faith.

11 Now may our God and Father himself and our Lord Jesus direct our way to you. 12 And may the Lord make you increase and abound in love for one another and for all, just as we abound in love for you. 13 And may he so strengthen your hearts in holiness that you may be blameless before our God and Father at the coming of our Lord Jesus with all his saints.  [NRSV-A]

 

The Holy Gospel: Luke 21:25-36 (Pew Bible page 857)

25 ‘There will be signs in the sun, the moon, and the stars, and on the earth distress among nations confused by the roaring of the sea and the waves. 26 People will faint from fear and foreboding of what is coming upon the world, for the powers of the heavens will be shaken. 27 Then they will see “the Son of Man coming in a cloud” with power and great glory. 28 Now when these things begin to take place, stand up and raise your heads, because your redemption is drawing near.’

29 Then he told them a parable: ‘Look at the fig tree and all the trees; 30 as soon as they sprout leaves you can see for yourselves and know that summer is already near. 31 So also, when you see these things taking place, you know that the kingdom of God is near. 32 Truly I tell you, this generation will not pass away until all things have taken place. 33 Heaven and earth will pass away, but my words will not pass away.

34 ‘Be on guard so that your hearts are not weighed down with dissipation and drunkenness and the worries of this life, and that day does not catch you unexpectedly, 35 like a trap. For it will come upon all who live on the face of the whole earth. 36 Be alert at all times, praying that you may have the strength to escape all these things that will take place, and to stand before the Son of Man.’ [NRSV-A]

November 24, 2024 – REIGN OF CHRIST THE KING

Scriptures NRSV-A:

The Reign of CHRIST THE KING Sunday

          Today, Christ the King, or the Reign of Christ, (we’ve put the two together and call it The Reign of CHRIST THE KING) is the last Sunday of Ordinary Time which follows The Day of Pentecost and ends the Church year. This day completes the Christian journey through the life and teaching of Jesus Christ on earth, and which began with the preparation for both the birth of Jesus and his second coming at the end of time, in Advent of last year. Kings are absolute rulers: they attain power by raising and leading armies into war against other countries. Jesus' struggle, as the King of Peace, was not against people or against a country, but against sin, death, and the power of the Devil. By his death, resurrection, and ascension, Jesus won the struggle against evil.

            On this Sunday, Christians recognize and worship Christ as king of heaven and earth for all time without challenge and without end. As this Sunday ‘crowns' the ‘ordinary time' of the Church year, so we are reminded that all things in our lives our meant to come under the benevolent rule, guidance and protection of our Lord Jesus Christ, the King of kings, the Shepherd of our souls. 

Notes on Today’s Scripture Readings

2 Samuel 23:1-7   The books of Samuel end with six appendices: some are stories which fit earlier chronologically, and some are poems. Our reading, “the last words of David”, is such a poem. God has made David the founder of a dynasty.

Revelation 1:4b-8   John begins and ends this book as a letter. Literally, it is “to the seven churches of Asia”, that is, of the Roman province in western Asia Minor, but “seven” symbolizes totality, so John may speak to all churches in the province, or to all churches, everywhere.

John 18:33-37   Our reading is part of John’s account of Jesus’ trial before Pilate. Pilate has asked some Jews who seek to have Jesus punished what charge, valid in Roman law, they wish Jesus to be charged with. They propose none, so Pilate asks Jesus whether he is leader of a revolutionary sect.  © 1996-2024 Chris Haslam

First Reading: 2 Samuel 23:1-7 (Pew Bible page 261)

1 Now these are the last words of David:

The oracle of David, son of Jesse,
   the oracle of the man whom God exalted,
the anointed of the God of Jacob,
   the favourite of the Strong One of Israel:

2 The spirit of the Lord speaks through me,
   his word is upon my tongue.
3 The God of Israel has spoken,
   the Rock of Israel has said to me:
One who rules over people justly,
   ruling in the fear of God,
4 is like the light of morning,
   like the sun rising on a cloudless morning,
   gleaming from the rain on the grassy land.

5 Is not my house like this with God?
   For he has made with me an everlasting covenant,
   ordered in all things and secure.
   Will he not cause to prosper
   all my help and my desire?
6 But the godless are all like thorns that are thrown away;
   for they cannot be picked up with the hand;
7 to touch them one uses an iron bar
   or the shaft of a spear.
   And they are entirely consumed in fire on the spot. [NRSV-A]

Psalm: Psalm 132:1-13

1   Lord, remember David, *

and all the hardships he endured;

2   How he swore an oath to the Lord *

and vowed a vow to the Mighty One of     Jacob:

3   “I will not come under the roof of my house, *

nor climb up into my bed;

4   I will not allow my eyes to sleep, *

nor let my eyelids slumber;

5   Until I find a place for the Lord, *

a dwelling for the Mighty One of Jacob”

6   “The Ark! We heard it was in Ephratah; *

we found it in the fields of Jearim.

7   Let us go to God’s dwelling place; *

let us fall upon our knees before his footstool.”

8   Arise, O Lord, into your resting-place, *

you and the ark of your strength.

9   Let your priests be clothed with righteousness; *

let your faithful people sing with joy.

10 For your servant David’s sake, *

do not turn away the face of your anointed.

11 The Lord has sworn an oath to David; *

in truth, he will not break it:

12 “A son, the fruit of your body *

will I set upon your throne.

13 If your children keep my covenant

and my testimonies that I shall teach them, *

their children will sit upon your throne for evermore.”

Second Reading: Revelation 1:4b-8 (Pew Bible page 994)

4b Grace to you and peace from him who is and who was and who is to come, and from the seven spirits who are before his throne, 5 and from Jesus Christ, the faithful witness, the firstborn of the dead, and the ruler of the kings of the earth.

To him who loves us and freed us from our sins by his blood, 6 and made us to be a kingdom, priests serving[c] his God and Father, to him be glory and dominion for ever and ever. Amen.

7 Look! He is coming with the clouds;
   every eye will see him,
even those who pierced him;
   and on his account all the tribes of the earth will wail.

So it is to be. Amen.

8 ‘I am the Alpha and the Omega’, says the Lord God, who is and who was and who is to come, the Almighty. [NRSV-A]

The Holy Gospel: John 18:33-37 (Pew Bible page 881)

33 Then Pilate entered the headquarters again, summoned Jesus, and asked him, ‘Are you the King of the Jews?’ 34 Jesus answered, ‘Do you ask this on your own, or did others tell you about me?’ 35 Pilate replied, ‘I am not a Jew, am I? Your own nation and the chief priests have handed you over to me. What have you done?’ 36 Jesus answered, ‘My kingdom is not from this world. If my kingdom were from this world, my followers would be fighting to keep me from being handed over to the Jews. But as it is, my kingdom is not from here.’ 37 Pilate asked him, ‘So you are a king?’ Jesus answered, ‘You say that I am a king. For this I was born, and for this I came into the world, to testify to the truth. Everyone who belongs to the truth listens to my voice.’     [NRSV-A]

November 17, 2024 – 26th Sunday after Pentecost

Scriptures NRSV-A:

Notes on Today’s Scripture Readings

Daniel 12:1-3   A time of anguish here on earth is contrasted with the reality of eternal life when it will be glorious for some and terrible for others.

Hebrews 10:11-18   The author has told us how much greater Christ’s sacrifice of himself is than the annual sacrifices of the high priest on the Day of Atonement. Now he says that what any priest offers in sacrificial ritual is little compared to Christ’s once-for-all-time sacrifice on the Cross.

Mark 13:1-8   As Jesus emerges from teaching in the temple courtyard, his disciples note the enormous stone blocks yet to be incorporated into the Temple. Despite that, Jesus replies that the Temple will not survive the end of the age.  © 1996-2024 Chris Haslam

 

First Reading: Daniel 12:1-3 (Pew Bible page 729)

1 “At that time Michael, the great prince, the protector of your people, shall arise. There shall be a time of anguish, such as has never occurred since nations first came into existence. But at that time your people shall be delivered, everyone who is found written in the book. 2Many of those who sleep in the dust of the earth shall awake, some to everlasting life, and some to shame and everlasting contempt. 3Those who are wise shall shine like the brightness of the sky, and those who lead many to righteousness, like the stars forever and ever. [NRSV-A]

 

Psalm: Psalm 113

1   Hallelujah!

Give praise, you servants of the Lord; *

praise the name of the Lord.

2   Let the name of the Lord be blessed, *

from this time forth for evermore.

3   From the rising of the sun to its going down *

let the name of the Lord be praised.

4   The Lord is high above all nations, *

and his glory above the heavens.

5   Who is like the Lord our God, who sits enthroned on high, *

but stoops to behold the heavens and the earth?

6   He takes up the weak out of the dust *

and lifts up the poor from the ashes.

7   He sets them with the princes, *

with the princes of his people.

8   He makes the woman of a childless house *

to be a joyful mother of children.

 

Second Reading: Hebrews 10:11-17 (Pew Bible page 976)

11 And every priest stands day after day at his service, offering again and again the same sacrifices that can never take away sins. 12 But when Christ had offered for all time a single sacrifice for sins, ‘he sat down at the right hand of God’, 13 and since then has been waiting ‘until his enemies would be made a footstool for his feet.’ 14 For by a single offering he has perfected for all time those who are sanctified. 15 And the Holy Spirit also testifies to us, for after saying,

16 ‘This is the covenant that I will make with them
   after those days, says the Lord:
I will put my laws in their hearts,
   and I will write them on their minds’,

17 he also adds,

‘I will remember their sins and their lawless deeds no more.’  [NRSV-A]

 

The Holy Gospel: Mark 13:1-8 (Pew Bible page 825)

1 As Jesus came out of the temple, one of his disciples said to him, ‘Look, Teacher, what large stones and what large buildings!’ 

2 Then Jesus asked him, ‘Do you see these great buildings? Not one stone will be left here upon another; all will be thrown down.’

3 When he was sitting on the Mount of Olives opposite the temple, Peter, James, John, and Andrew asked him privately, 4 ‘Tell us, when will this be, and what will be the sign that all these things are about to be accomplished?’ 

5 Then Jesus began to say to them, ‘Beware that no one leads you astray. 6 Many will come in my name and say, “I am he!” and they will lead many astray. 7 When you hear of wars and rumours of wars, do not be alarmed; this must take place, but the end is still to come. 8 For nation will rise against nation, and kingdom against kingdom; there will be earthquakes in various places; there will be famines. This is but the beginning of the birth pangs. [NRSV-A]

November 10, 2024 – 25th Sunday after Pentecost

Scriptures NRSV-A:

Notes on today’s Scripture Readings

 

Ruth 3:1-5;4:13-17   Naomi has returned to Judah after her husband and two sons have died. Both she and her daughter-in-law, Ruth, are widows, and therefore destitute. She counsels Ruth on how to seek a new husband in a society where women only found security in marriage.

 

Hebrews 9:24-28   The author continues to see Christ as the great high priest, and to contrast him with a high priest in the Temple. Heaven is the perfect, ideal “sanctuary”, while the Holy of Holies in the Temple is a “mere copy” of the divine one.

 

Mark 12:38-44   A scribe has asked Jesus: which is the greatest commandment? Jesus has told him that he is almost ready for the kingdom of God. On the other hand, some scribes are ostentatious, hypocritical, and greedy: they are not examples of discipleship.    © 1996-2024 Chris Haslam

First Reading: Ruth 3:1-5, 4:13-17 (Pew Bible page 211)

1 Naomi her mother-in-law said to her, ‘My daughter, I need to seek some security for you, so that it may be well with you. 2 Now here is our kinsman Boaz, with whose young women you have been working. See, he is winnowing barley tonight at the threshing-floor. 3 Now wash and anoint yourself, and put on your best clothes and go down to the threshing-floor; but do not make yourself known to the man until he has finished eating and drinking. 4 When he lies down, observe the place where he lies; then, go and uncover his feet and lie down; and he will tell you what to do.’ 5 She said to her, ‘All that you tell me I will do.’

13 So Boaz took Ruth and she became his wife. When they came together, the Lord made her conceive, and she bore a son. 14 Then the women said to Naomi, ‘Blessed be the Lord, who has not left you this day without next-of-kin;[a] and may his name be renowned in Israel! 15 He shall be to you a restorer of life and a nourisher of your old age; for your daughter-in-law who loves you, who is more to you than seven sons, has borne him.’ 16 Then Naomi took the child and laid him in her bosom, and became his nurse. 17 The women of the neighbourhood gave him a name, saying, ‘A son has been born to Naomi.’ They named him Obed; he became the father of Jesse, the father of David. [NRSV-A]

 

Psalm: Psalm 127

1   Unless the Lord builds the house, *

     their labour is in vain who build it.

2   Unless the Lord watches over the city, *

     in vain the watchman keeps his vigil.

3   It is in vain that you rise so early and go to bed so late; *

     vain, too, to eat the bread of toil,

     for he gives to his beloved sleep.

4   Children are a heritage from the Lord, *

     and the fruit of the womb is a gift.

5   Like arrows in the hand of a warrior *

     are the children of one’s youth.

6   Happy is the man who has his quiver full of them! *

     he shall not be put to shame

     when he contends with his enemies in the gate.

 

Second Reading: Hebrews 9:24-28 (Pew Bible page 976)

24 For Christ did not enter a sanctuary made by human hands, a mere copy of the true one, but he entered into heaven itself, now to appear in the presence of God on our behalf. 25 Nor was it to offer himself again and again, as the high priest enters the Holy Place year after year with blood that is not his own; 26 for then he would have had to suffer again and again since the foundation of the world. But as it is, he has appeared once for all at the end of the age to remove sin by the sacrifice of himself. 27 And just as it is appointed for mortals to die once, and after that the judgement, 28 so Christ, having been offered once to bear the sins of many, will appear a second time, not to deal with sin, but to save those who are eagerly waiting for him. [NRSV-A]     

 

The Holy Gospel: Mark 12:38-44 (Pew Bible page 825)

38 As Jesus  taught, he said, ‘Beware of the scribes, who like to walk around in long robes, and to be greeted with respect in the market-places, 39 and to have the best seats in the synagogues and places of honour at banquets! 40 They devour widows’ houses and for the sake of appearance say long prayers. They will receive the greater condemnation.’

41 Jesus  sat down opposite the treasury, and watched the crowd putting money into the treasury. Many rich people put in large sums. 42 A poor widow came and put in two small copper coins, which are worth a penny. 43 Then he called his disciples and said to them, ‘Truly I tell you, this poor widow has put in more than all those who are contributing to the treasury. 44 For all of them have contributed out of their abundance; but she out of her poverty has put in everything she had, all she had to live on.’    [NRSV-A]

November 3, 2024 – 1st Sunday after All Saints Day

Scriptures NRSV-A:

Notes on today’s Scripture Readings

Jeremiah 31:31-34   In a time of political and religious convulsions, Jeremiah comforts the people of both northern and southern Israel. Despite their past infidelity, God will act for his people, in a new way.

Romans 12:1-8   Paul has concluded the doctrinal section of his letter. He now turns to practical application of the gospel. He first tells us how we are to behave in the Christian community.

Matthew 5:1-12   Jesus has travelled through Galilee teaching, proclaiming the good news, and curing people of physical and spiritual illnesses. Great crowds from Israel and beyond have flocked to him.   © 1996-2024 Chris Haslam

First Reading: Jeremiah 31:31-34

31 The days are surely coming, says the Lord, when I will make a new covenant with the house of Israel and the house of Judah. 32 It will not be like the covenant that I made with their ancestors when I took them by the hand to bring them out of the land of Egypt—a covenant that they broke, though I was their husband, says the Lord. 33 But this is the covenant that I will make with the house of Israel after those days, says the Lord: I will put my law within them, and I will write it on their hearts; and I will be their God, and they shall be my people. 34 No longer shall they teach one another, or say to each other, ‘Know the Lord’, for they shall all know me, from the least of them to the greatest, says the Lord; for I will forgive their iniquity, and remember their sin no more. [NRSV-A]

 

Psalm: Psalm 139:1-9

1   Lord, you have searched me out and known me; *

     you know my sitting down and my rising up; you discern  my thoughts from afar.

2   You trace my journeys and my resting-places *

      and are acquainted with all my ways.

3   Indeed, there is not a word on my lips, *

     but you, O Lord, know it altogether.

4   You press upon me behind and before *

     and lay your hand upon me.

5   Such knowledge is too wonderful for me; *

     it is so high that I cannot attain to it.

6   Where can I go then from your Spirit? *

     where can I flee from your presence?

7   If I climb up to heaven, you are there; *

     if I make the grave my bed, you are there also.

8   If I take the wings of the morning *

     and dwell in the uttermost parts of the sea,

9   Even there your hand will lead me *

     and your right hand hold me fast.

 

Second Reading: Romans 12:1-8

1 I appeal to you therefore, brothers and sisters, by the mercies of God, to present your bodies as a living sacrifice, holy and acceptable to God, which is your spiritual worship. 2 Do not be conformed to this world, but be transformed by the renewing of your minds, so that you may discern what is the will of God—what is good and acceptable and perfect.

3 For by the grace given to me I say to everyone among you not to think of yourself more highly than you ought to think, but to think with sober judgement, each according to the measure of faith that God has assigned.

4 For as in one body we have many members, and not all the members have the same function,

5 so we, who are many, are one body in Christ, and individually we are members one of another.

6 We have gifts that differ according to the grace given to us: prophecy, in proportion to faith;

7 ministry, in ministering; the teacher, in teaching;

8 the exhorter, in exhortation; the giver, in generosity; the leader, in diligence; the compassionate, in cheerfulness.   [NRSV-A]

 

The Holy Gospel: Matthew 5:1-12

5 When Jesus saw the crowds, he went up the mountain; and after he sat down, his disciples came to him. 2 Then he began to speak, and taught them, saying:

3 ‘Blessed are the poor in spirit, for theirs is the kingdom of heaven.

4 ‘Blessed are those who mourn, for they will be comforted.

5 ‘Blessed are the meek, for they will inherit the earth.

6 ‘Blessed are those who hunger and thirst for righteousness, for they will be filled.

7 ‘Blessed are the merciful, for they will receive mercy.

8 ‘Blessed are the pure in heart, for they will see God.

9 ‘Blessed are the peacemakers, for they will be called children of God.

10 ‘Blessed are those who are persecuted for righteousness’ sake, for theirs is the kingdom of heaven.

11 ‘Blessed are you when people revile you and persecute you and utter all kinds of evil against you falsely on my account. 12 Rejoice and be glad, for your reward is great in heaven, for in the same way they persecuted the prophets who were before you.   [NRSV-A]

October 27, 2024 – 23RD Sunday after Pentecost

Scriptures NRSV-A:

 

Notes on today’s Scripture Readings:

 

Job 42:1-6,10-17   God has invited Job to replace him as divine king and manager of the world, but it is a safe offer, because Job cannot and will not accept it. To ancient people, possessions and progeny indicated God’s favour: God loves him even more dearly after his ordeals.

 

Hebrews 7:23-28   The author has told us that we have a great high priest – namely, Christ. Now he tells us how our high priest differs from the Temple priests of old.

 

Mark 10:46-52   The story of blind Bartimaeus is more than a healing story. As Jesus and the disciples near Jerusalem, Bartimaeus spontaneously proclaims Jesus’ true identity. He stands in contrast to the disciples, for he sees better than they the nature of Jesus’ kingly authority.

 

First Reading: Job 42:1-6, 10-17 (Pew Bible page 424)

1 Then Job answered the Lord:

2 ‘I know that you can do all things,
   and that no purpose of yours can be thwarted.
3 “Who is this that hides counsel without knowledge?”
Therefore I have uttered what I did not understand,
   things too wonderful for me, which I did not know.
4 “Hear, and I will speak;
   I will question you, and you declare to me.”
5 I had heard of you by the hearing of the ear,
   but now my eye sees you;
6 therefore I despise myself,
   and repent in dust and ashes.’

10 And the Lord restored the fortunes of Job when he had prayed for his friends; and the Lord gave Job twice as much as he had before. 11 Then there came to him all his brothers and sisters and all who had known him before, and they ate bread with him in his house; they showed him sympathy and comforted him for all the evil that the Lord had brought upon him; and each of them gave him a piece of money and a gold ring. 12 The Lord blessed the latter days of Job more than his beginning; and he had fourteen thousand sheep, six thousand camels, a thousand yoke of oxen, and a thousand donkeys. 13 He also had seven sons and three daughters. 14 He named the first Jemimah, the second Keziah, and the third Keren-happuch. 15 In all the land there were no women so beautiful as Job’s daughters; and their father gave them an inheritance along with their brothers. 16 After this Job lived for one hundred and forty years, and saw his children, and his children’s children, four generations. 17 And Job died, old and full of days. [NRSV-A]

 

Psalm: Psalm 34:1-8

1   I will bless the Lord at all times; *

his praise shall ever be in my mouth.

2   I will glory in the Lord; *

let the humble hear and rejoice.

3   Proclaim with me the greatness of the Lord; *

let us exalt his name together.

4   I sought the Lord, and he answered me *

and delivered me out of all my terror.

5   Look upon him and be radiant, *

and let not your faces be ashamed.

6   I called in my affliction and the Lord heard me *

and saved me from all my troubles.

7   The angel of the Lord encompasses those who fear him, *

and he will deliver them.

8   Taste and see that the Lord is good; *

happy are they who trust in him!

 

Second Reading: Hebrews 7:23-28 (Pew Bible page 974)

23 Furthermore, the former priests were many in number, because they were prevented by death from continuing in office; 24 but he holds his priesthood permanently, because he continues for ever. 25 Consequently he is able for all time to save those who approach God through him, since he always lives to make intercession for them.

26 For it was fitting that we should have such a high priest, holy, blameless, undefiled, separated from sinners, and exalted above the heavens. 27 Unlike the other high priests, he has no need to offer sacrifices day after day, first for his own sins, and then for those of the people; this he did once for all when he offered himself. 28 For the law appoints as high priests those who are subject to weakness, but the word of the oath, which came later than the law, appoints a Son who has been made perfect for ever.  [NRSV-A]

 

The Holy Gospel: Mark 10:46-52 (Pew Bible page 823)

46 They came to Jericho. As he and his disciples and a large crowd were leaving Jericho, Bartimaeus son of Timaeus, a blind beggar, was sitting by the roadside. 47 When he heard that it was Jesus of Nazareth, he began to shout out and say, ‘Jesus, Son of David, have mercy on me!’ 48 Many sternly ordered him to be quiet, but he cried out even more loudly, ‘Son of David, have mercy on me!’ 49 Jesus stood still and said, ‘Call him here.’ And they called the blind man, saying to him, ‘Take heart; get up, he is calling you.’ 50 So throwing off his cloak, he sprang up and came to Jesus. 51 Then Jesus said to him, ‘What do you want me to do for you?’ The blind man said to him, ‘My teacher, let me see again.’ 52 Jesus said to him, ‘Go; your faith has made you well.’ Immediately he regained his sight and followed him on the way.   [NRSV-A]

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