Start a Lectionary Conversation - August 18, 2024
Thirteenth Sunday after pentecost
The texts this week invite us to consider two kinds of life - the physical, mortal life, and the spiritual or eternal life or aliveness. In one way or another, all the texts speak to how we can attain the “wisdom” or insight to grow into this aliveness with God.
These questions are meant to start a conversation - either during or before worship, in a sermon, a newsletter, Bible Study, or just between a person and their journal.
Gospel: John 6:51-58
In this passage, Jesus is foreshadowing the sacrifice of his death as he speaks about eating his body and drinking his blood. His life and physical body will give life to others. Where have you seen someone sacrificing to give life to others (likely not to the same extent as Jesus!)?
1st Reading: Proverbs 9:1-6
How is Holy Wisdom different from everyday, human wisdom?
Alternate 1st Reading: 1 Kings 2:10-12, 3:3-14
Upon ascending to the throne, the new King Solomon prays to God and asks for wisdom. What gift would you ask God for if you were about to become very powerful?
The Psalm gives us a sense of what it means to seek the Lord, and feel fully alive. Verse 14 suggests, “Depart from evil, and do good; seek peace, and pursue it.” How do you try to live these things out?
2nd Reading: Ephesians 5:15-20
How does your community of faith seek to understand the will of God?
