Malachi 1:14-2:2. 8-10

Religious leaders are warned that they have caused many to “stray” and “stumble” because of their teaching and actions.

1 Thessalonians 2:7-9. 13

God’s message is a “living power” among communities of Christians.

Matthew 23: 1-12

The failures of the scribes and Pharisees are identified, and Jesus suggests that his followers seek a path of humility and service.

Exodus 22: 20-26

Moses reminds the people of their duty to look after the stranger and those in need, encouraging them to learn from their own experience in Egypt.

 

1 Thessalonians 1: 5-10

Paul rejoices in the fact that the disciples he helped form in Thessalonika have become missionary themselves.

 

Matthew 22: 34-40

As the Pharisees seek to disconcert him, Jesus plays his trump card: everything depends on love.

Isaiah 45: 1. 4-6

God can use anyone, believer and unbeliever alike, to achieve the divine purpose.

1 Thessalonians 1: 1-5

Paul and his companion send words of encouragement to the Church in Thessalonika.

Matthew 22: 15-21

Jesus sees through the Pharisees’ attempt to trap him, and teaches the necessity of offering to God what belongs to God.

THIS WEEK’S READINGS:

Isaiah 25: 6-10

On the mountain of Zion, God celebrates the end of death in a banquet with all peoples, whose sorrow and suffering are removed for ever.

Philippians 4: 12-14, 19-20

The apostle Paul is in prison, yet even there rejoices in God and in his companions for the strength and equanimity to accept whatever befalls him.

Matthew 22: 1-14

God’s kingdom is described as being like a great feast to which everyone, both bad and good, is invited, but not everyone accepts the invitation.

Isaiah 5: 1-7

The Lord likens his people to his favoured vineyard.

Philippians 4: 6-9

We are to fill our minds with everything that is true and good, and the God of peace will be with us.

Matthew 21: 33-43

We are called to take care of the Lord’s vineyard, his kingdom, and produce from it the fruits of his love.