LIVING GRACE LUTHERAN CHURCH
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CHRIST THE KING SUNDAY
LESSONS FOR SUNDAY, 23 NOVEMBER
First Reading: Jeremiah 23:1-6
Today’s reading builds on the common, ancient Near Eastern metaphor of the king as shepherd. Judah’s unjust rulers have caused their people, their “flock,” to be scattered. Nevertheless, God will raise up a new and righteous shepherd who will rule a restored Judah.
Psalm: Psalm 46
I will be exalted among the nations. (Ps. 46:10)
Second Reading: Colossians 1:11-20
An early Christian hymn praises the mystery of the political, personal, and mystical Christ, the one who was present at creation and is eternally reigning with God.
Gospel: Luke 23:33-43
Amid scoffing and slander from those who sarcastically call him Messiah and king, Jesus reveals that to be Messiah and king is to give one’s life for others. Here he uses his power to welcome a despised sinner to paradise but puts his own death into God’s hands.
(FROM SUNDAY SAND SEASONS 2025)
THE FIRST SUNDAY OF ADVENT
Lessons for this Sunday, 30 November
First Reading: Isaiah 2:1-5
The visionary message presented in this reading focuses on a future day when God establishes a universal reign of peace. Divine decisions will make war obsolete, and the worshiping community responds: “Let us walk in the light of that Lord now!”
Psalm: Psalm 122
I was glad when they said to me, “Let us go to the house of the Lord.” (Ps. 122:1)
Second Reading: Romans 13:11-14
Paul compares the advent of Christ to the coming of dawn. We live our lives today in light of Christ’s coming in the future.
Gospel: Matthew 24:36-44
Jesus describes his second coming as a sudden, turbulent event that will bring about deep change to our normal, day-to-day lives. Therefore, he urges people to stay awake, be aware, and wait expectantly, because the Son of Man will come unannounced.
(FROM SUNDAY SAND SEASONS 2026)








