The Sunday Lectionary and Prayers with Commentaries for Sunday, January 14, 2024—Second Sunday after the Epiphany

 

The Sunday Lectionary and Prayers
with Commentaries
Sunday, January 14, 2024
Second Sunday after the Epiphany

Divine Guidance and Human Response

1 Samuel 3:1-10 [11-20]; Psalm 139:1-6, 13-18;

1 Corinthians 6:12-20; John 1:43-51
(Revised Common Lectionary Year B)
(Ordinary 2)

Call of Christ

Everyone has a call from God. Big or small, we all have an important role to play in the kingdom of God. But sometimes we don't answer his call. Will you answer?

Introduction

This selection of scriptures, encompassing 1 Samuel 3:1-10 [11-20], Psalm 139:1-6, 13-18, 1 Corinthians 6:12-20, and John 1:43-51, explores the profound themes of divine guidance and the human response to it. In 1 Samuel, we witness the young Samuel learning to recognize and respond to God's voice, symbolizing the journey of faith and obedience. Psalm 139 eloquently expresses the omnipresence and omniscience of God, acknowledging His intimate knowledge and involvement in our lives. In 1 Corinthians, Paul addresses the moral and spiritual implications of being members of Christ's body, urging believers to honor God with their bodies. Finally, in John, the calling of the disciples by Jesus illustrates the transformative power of encountering Christ. Together, these passages offer a rich tapestry of insights into understanding and responding to God's call in our lives.

Opening Prayer
(1 Samuel 3, Psalm 139, John 1)

Heavenly Father, in the stillness of this moment, we recall the calling of Samuel, as you whispered his name in the quiet of the night. Lord, like young Samuel, let our hearts be open to hear Your voice, discerning and ready to respond, "Speak, for your servant is listening."

In the depths of Your wisdom, as beautifully expressed in Psalm 139, You know us completely. You have searched us and you know us. You perceive our thoughts from afar, and discern our going out and our lying down. You are familiar with all our ways. Before a word is on our tongue, Lord, You know it completely. May this knowledge comfort us, reminding us of Your ever-present love and guidance.

As we walk in the light of Your truth, just as John proclaimed the coming of the Light in John 1, let us be bearers of Your light in this world. May we live in the fullness of Your grace and truth, shining Your light in every corner of our lives.

Guide us, O God, in the path of righteousness. Help us to see others as You see them, love as You love, and serve as You have served us through Your Son, Jesus Christ. May our words, thoughts, and actions be a reflection of Your love and grace to those around us.

In Jesus' name, we pray, Amen.

Prayer of Confession
(1 Samuel 3, Psalm 139, John 1)

Heavenly Father, in the stillness of the night, as You called Samuel, we acknowledge Your voice calling us amidst the noise of our lives. Forgive us, O Lord, for the times we have turned a deaf ear to Your whispers, mistaking them for the mundane or fearing the change they might bring.

You have searched us, Lord, and You know us, as the Psalmist declares in Psalm 139. You know when we sit and when we rise; You perceive our thoughts from afar. In Your omniscience, You see the paths we choose and the sins that entangle us. Forgive us, Father, for the ways we have strayed from Your will, for the secrets we keep hidden, and for the darkness we allow to reside in our hearts.

In the light of John 1, we are reminded that in Jesus, the Word became flesh, dwelling among us, full of grace and truth. Yet, Lord, we confess that too often we have rejected this divine light, preferring to walk in our own ways rather than in the radiance of Your truth. Forgive us for not recognizing Jesus in our midst, for not embracing the grace He offers, and for not living as children of light.

As You knit us together in our mother's womb, as the Psalmist marvels, we are fearfully and wonderfully made. Yet, we confess that we have not always used our bodies, minds, and spirits to honor You. Forgive us for the times we have neglected or abused the gift of life You have bestowed upon us.

Lord, as You revealed Yourself to Samuel and as You reveal Yourself to us through Your Word and Your Spirit, guide us to listen and respond with a willing heart. May we, like Samuel, say, "Speak, for your servant is listening," and like the disciples of John, follow Jesus, the Lamb of God, who takes away the sin of the world.

In Jesus' name, we pray, Amen.

Assurance of Pardon
(1 Corinthians 6, John 1)

Beloved in Christ, hear the good news: In Jesus, we are called out of darkness into His marvelous light. Though we were once lost in our transgressions, we have been washed, sanctified, and justified in the name of the Lord Jesus Christ and by the Spirit of our God. In Him, our past is redeemed, our present made holy, and our future secured.

As John 1 reminds us, "In the beginning was the Word, and the Word was with God, and the Word was God… In Him was life, and that life was the light of all mankind." This light shines in our hearts, dispelling the shadows of sin and guilt.

Therefore, let us embrace the grace that is ours in Christ Jesus. Through Him, we are forgiven, renewed, and restored to a right relationship with our Creator. Let us live as people of light, reflecting the love and truth of the One who has called us by name. Amen.

Today’s Lectionary Readings
First Reading
From the Historical Books

1 Samuel 3:1-10 [11-20]
The Divine Call and Prophetic Commission of Samuel

1 Samuel 3:1-10 [11-20] presents a pivotal moment in the life of Samuel, a young boy serving under the high priest Eli at the temple in Shiloh. This passage is remarkable for its depiction of the divine call to Samuel, marking the beginning of his journey as a prophet. At a time when "visions were infrequent" and the word of the Lord was rare, this narrative stands out as a moment of divine intervention and guidance. It highlights the themes of calling, obedience, and the transformative power of God's voice in the lives of individuals.

3 1 The boy Samuel ministered before the LORD under Eli. In those days the word of the LORD was rare; there were not many visions.

2 One night Eli, whose eyes were becoming so weak that he could barely see, was lying down in his usual place. 3 The lamp of God had not yet gone out, and Samuel was lying down in the house of the LORD, where the ark of God was. 4 Then the LORD called Samuel.

Samuel answered, “Here I am.” 5 And he ran to Eli and said, “Here I am; you called me.”

But Eli said, “I did not call; go back and lie down.” So he went and lay down.

6 Again the LORD called, “Samuel!” And Samuel got up and went to Eli and said, “Here I am; you called me.”

“My son,” Eli said, “I did not call; go back and lie down.”

7 Now Samuel did not yet know the LORD: The word of the LORD had not yet been revealed to him.

8 A third time the LORD called, “Samuel!” And Samuel got up and went to Eli and said, “Here I am; you called me.”

Then Eli realized that the LORD was calling the boy. 9 So Eli told Samuel, “Go and lie down, and if he calls you, say, ‘Speak, LORD, for your servant is listening.’” So Samuel went and lay down in his place.

10 The LORD came and stood there, calling as at the other times, “Samuel! Samuel!”

Then Samuel said, “Speak, for your servant is listening.”

[11 And the LORD said to Samuel: “See, I am about to do something in Israel that will make the ears of everyone who hears about it tingle. 12 At that time I will carry out against Eli everything I spoke against his family—from beginning to end. 13 For I told him that I would judge his family forever because of the sin he knew about; his sons blasphemed God, and he failed to restrain them. 14 Therefore I swore to the house of Eli, ‘The guilt of Eli’s house will never be atoned for by sacrifice or offering.’”

15 Samuel lay down until morning and then opened the doors of the house of the LORD. He was afraid to tell Eli the vision, 16 but Eli called him and said, “Samuel, my son.”

Samuel answered, “Here I am.”

17 “What was it he said to you?” Eli asked. “Do not hide it from me. May God deal with you, be it ever so severely, if you hide from me anything he told you.” 18 So Samuel told him everything, hiding nothing from him. Then Eli said, “He is the LORD; let him do what is good in his eyes.”

19 The LORD was with Samuel as he grew up, and he let none of Samuel’s words fall to the ground. 20 And all Israel from Dan to Beersheba recognized that Samuel was attested as a prophet of the LORD.]

Commentary

Verses 1-3: These verses set the scene in the temple, emphasizing the rarity of divine messages and visions at that time. Samuel's position near the Ark of God symbolizes his closeness to the divine presence, yet his initial unawareness of God's voice suggests a spiritual atmosphere in need of renewal.
 
Verses 4-6: Samuel's response to what he believes is Eli calling him demonstrates his readiness to serve, a key attribute of a prophet. His repeated inability to recognize God's voice initially reflects the general spiritual condition of Israel, where the recognition of God's direct communication had diminished.

Verses 7-10: The narrative turns as Eli realizes that God is calling Samuel. This moment signifies not only the call of Samuel as a prophet but also a generational shift in spiritual leadership. Eli's instruction to Samuel to respond with "Speak, LORD, for your servant is listening" is pivotal, teaching Samuel—and the readers—the importance of listening and submission to God's voice.

Verses 11-20 (extended section): In these verses, Samuel receives his first prophetic message, which is one of judgment against Eli's house. This difficult message symbolizes the weight of the prophetic call and the challenge of speaking truth to power. Samuel's growth in stature and favor, both with the Lord and people, marks the beginning of a new era in Israel's history, where prophecy becomes a significant means of divine communication and guidance.

This passage in 1 Samuel 3 is a powerful reminder of the need for spiritual sensitivity and the willingness to respond to God's call. It illustrates how God can use even the youngest and seemingly inexperienced individuals for significant purposes, emphasizing the importance of listening for and discerning the divine voice in our lives.

A Psalm and A Prayer
Responsive Readings from the Psalms and Prayers
for Public Worship and Private Devotions

Psalm 139:1-6, 13-18
Unfathomable Knowledge, Intimate Design

Psalm 139:1-6, 13-18 is a profound reflection on God's omnipresence and omniscience. It expresses the psalmist's awe at God's intimate knowledge of every aspect of human life and the divine intricacy in our creation. This passage is a celebration of the inescapable presence of God and a testament to the belief that every individual is wonderfully made by a knowing Creator. As we delve into these verses, we are invited to contemplate the depth of God's understanding and the personalized care with which He has fashioned each of us.

1    You have searched me, LORD, *
        And you know me.

2    You know when I sit and when I rise; *
        You perceive my thoughts from afar.

3    You discern my going out and my lying down; *
        You are familiar with all my ways.

4    Before a word is on my tongue *
        You, LORD, know it completely.

5    You hem me in behind and before, *
        And you lay your hand upon me.

6    Such knowledge is too wonderful for me, *
        Too lofty for me to attain.

13  For you created my inmost being; *
        You knit me together in my mother’s womb.

14  I praise you because I am fearfully and wonderfully made; *
        Your works are wonderful,
            I know that full well.

15  My frame was not hidden from you *
        When I was made in the secret place,
            when I was woven together in the depths of the earth.

16  Your eyes saw my unformed body; *
        All the days ordained for me were written in your book
            before one of them came to be.

17  How precious to me are your thoughts, God! *
        How vast is the sum of them!

18  Were I to count them, *
       They would outnumber the grains of sand—
            when I awake, I am still with you.

Heavenly Father, in the light of Psalm 139, I come before You in awe of Your deep knowledge and understanding of me. You have searched me, Lord, and You know me. You perceive my thoughts from afar and are acquainted with all my ways.

I am humbled by the thought that even before a word is on my tongue, You, Lord, know it completely. Such knowledge is too wonderful for me, too lofty for me to attain. Your presence surrounds me—behind and before; Your hand guides and holds me.

I thank You, Lord, for creating my inmost being and knitting me together in my mother's womb. I praise You for I am fearfully and wonderfully made; Your works are wonderful, I know that full well.

Your eyes saw my unformed body; all the days ordained for me were written in Your book before one of them came to be. How precious to me are Your thoughts, God! How vast is the sum of them! Were I to count them, they would outnumber the grains of sand—when I awake, I am still with You.

Grant me, O Lord, the grace to live in the light of Your presence and to cherish the depth of Your knowledge and care. May my life reflect the wonder of Your creation and the beauty of Your perfect knowledge.

In Jesus' name, Amen.

Second Reading
From the Epistles

1 Corinthians 6:12-20
Honoring God with Our Bodies

In this passage from 1 Corinthians 6:12-20, the Apostle Paul addresses the Corinthian church about the proper use of their bodies. In a society that often celebrated physical indulgence and viewed the body as separate from the spiritual realm, Paul provides a counter-cultural perspective. He emphasizes that the body is not only a significant part of one's spiritual life but is also a temple of the Holy Spirit. This passage delves into the concepts of Christian liberty, sexual morality, and the profound connection between the physical and the spiritual in the life of a believer.

6 12 “I have the right to do anything,” you say—but not everything is beneficial. “I have the right to do anything”—but I will not be mastered by anything. 13 You say, “Food for the stomach and the stomach for food, and God will destroy them both.” The body, however, is not meant for sexual immorality but for the Lord, and the Lord for the body. 14 By his power God raised the Lord from the dead, and he will raise us also. 15 Do you not know that your bodies are members of Christ himself? Shall I then take the members of Christ and unite them with a prostitute? Never! 16 Do you not know that he who unites himself with a prostitute is one with her in body? For it is said, “The two will become one flesh.” 17 But whoever is united with the Lord is one with him in spirit.

18 Flee from sexual immorality. All other sins a person commits are outside the body, but whoever sins sexually, sins against their own body. 19 Do you not know that your bodies are temples of the Holy Spirit, who is in you, whom you have received from God? You are not your own; 20 you were bought at a price. Therefore honor God with your bodies.

Commentary

Christian Liberty vs. Beneficial Actions (Verse 12): Paul begins by acknowledging the freedom that believers have in Christ. However, he makes a clear distinction between what is permissible and what is beneficial. This sets the stage for understanding that Christian liberty is not a license for self-indulgence but a call to responsible living that honors God.

The Body and Eternity (Verses 13-14): The apostle challenges the Corinthian view that bodily actions are of no eternal consequence. He argues that the body is not meant for sexual immorality, but for the Lord, and the Lord for the body. By stating that God raised the Lord and will also raise us by His power, Paul connects the physical body with eternal destiny.

Union with Christ vs. Immoral Relationships (Verses 15-17): Here, Paul presents a powerful argument against sexual immorality by reminding the Corinthians that their bodies are members of Christ himself. Engaging in immoral acts, therefore, is not just a physical misstep but a spiritual betrayal. He emphasizes that a believer's union with Christ is incompatible with immoral relationships.

The Sin Against One’s Own Body (Verse 18): Paul urges believers to flee from sexual immorality, categorizing it as a sin that is uniquely against one's own body. This highlights the significance of the physical body in spiritual matters and calls for a respect and purity of the body that is uncommon in the Corinthian culture.

The Body as the Temple of the Holy Spirit (Verses 19-20): The passage culminates with a profound truth that a believer's body is the temple of the Holy Spirit, who is in them and whom they have received from God. This realization brings a sense of sacredness to the body, urging believers to honor God with their bodies. Paul concludes by reminding them that they were bought at a price, underscoring the value and dignity of the human body in God’s eyes.

In summary, 1 Corinthians 6:12-20 challenges believers to view their bodies as integral to their spiritual lives. Paul calls for a holistic spirituality that honors God not just in spirit but in body as well, asserting the deep connection between physical actions and spiritual truths.

Today’s Gospel Reading

John 1:43-51
Encountering the Divine: The Call of Nathanael

In John 1:43-51, we witness a profound interaction between Jesus and Nathanael, showcasing the beginning of Nathanael's spiritual journey and his recognition of Jesus as the Son of God. This passage highlights the themes of divine knowledge, recognition, and the transformative power of encountering Christ.

1 43 The next day Jesus decided to leave for Galilee. Finding Philip, he said to him, “Follow me.”

44 Philip, like Andrew and Peter, was from the town of Bethsaida. 45 Philip found Nathanael and told him, “We have found the one Moses wrote about in the Law, and about whom the prophets also wrote—Jesus of Nazareth, the son of Joseph.”

46 “Nazareth! Can anything good come from there?” Nathanael asked.

“Come and see,” said Philip.

47 When Jesus saw Nathanael approaching, he said of him, “Here truly is an Israelite in whom there is no deceit.”

48 “How do you know me?” Nathanael asked.

Jesus answered, “I saw you while you were still under the fig tree before Philip called you.”

49 Then Nathanael declared, “Rabbi, you are the Son of God; you are the king of Israel.”

50 Jesus said, “You believe because I told you I saw you under the fig tree. You will see greater things than that.” 51 He then added, “Very truly I tell you, you will see ‘heaven open, and the angels of God ascending and descending on’ the Son of Man.”

Commentary

The Call of Philip and Nathanael (Verse 43): This verse sets the stage for Nathanael’s encounter with Jesus. Jesus' invitation to Philip, “Follow me,” is simple yet powerful, illustrating His authority and the immediate obedience He inspires.

The Introduction of Nathanael (Verses 44-45): Nathanael is introduced as a man from Cana in Galilee, a detail that anchors the story in a real geographical context. Philip’s declaration to Nathanael, “We have found the one Moses wrote about in the Law, and about whom the prophets also wrote,” reflects the Messianic expectations of the time.

Nathanael’s Skepticism (Verse 46): Nathanael’s response, “Nazareth! Can anything good come from there?” is often seen as a moment of doubt or skepticism. This reflects a common human tendency to judge based on preconceptions or societal biases.

Jesus’ Insight (Verses 47-48): Jesus’ greeting to Nathanael, “Here truly is an Israelite in whom there is no deceit,” reveals Jesus’ supernatural knowledge and understanding of people's hearts. Nathanael’s astonishment at Jesus’ knowledge about him under the fig tree signifies a moment of divine revelation and personal transformation.

Recognition and Revelation (Verses 49-51): Nathanael's declaration, “Rabbi, you are the Son of God; you are the king of Israel,” marks a complete turnaround from skepticism to faith. Jesus’ response, promising Nathanael that he will see “heaven open, and the angels of God ascending and descending on the Son of Man,” indicates the greater revelations and spiritual truths that will be unveiled through Jesus, linking back to Jacob's ladder in Genesis.

In conclusion, John 1:43-51 encapsulates the journey from doubt to faith, illustrating how an encounter with Jesus can lead to profound spiritual insight and transformation. Nathanael’s story encourages readers to look beyond their preconceptions and recognize the divine presence and truth in their own lives.

Here end the Readings

Click HERE to read today’s Holy Gospel Lesson message

The Nicene Creed

The Nicene Creed

• We believe in one God, the Father almighty, maker of heaven and earth, of all things visible and invisible.

• And in one Lord Jesus Christ, the only Son of God, begotten from the Father before all ages, God from God, Light from Light, true God from true God, begotten, not made; of the same essence as the Father. Through him all things were made. For us and for our salvation he came down from heaven; he became incarnate by the Holy Spirit and the virgin Mary, and was made human. He was crucified for us under Pontius Pilate; he suffered and was buried. The third day he rose again, according to the Scriptures. He ascended to heaven and is seated at the right hand of the Father. He will come again with glory to judge the living and the dead. His kingdom will never end.

• And we believe in the Holy Spirit, the Lord, the giver of life. He proceeds from the Father and the Son, and with the Father and the Son is worshiped and glorified. He spoke through the prophets. We believe in one holy catholic and apostolic church. We affirm one baptism for the forgiveness of sins. We look forward to the resurrection of the dead, and to life in the world to come. Amen.

The Lord’s Prayer

The Lord's Prayer - Our Father Who Art in Heaven

Our Father who art in heaven, Hallowed be thy name. Thy kingdom come, Thy will be done in earth, as it is in heaven. Give us this day our daily bread. And forgive us our trespasses, as we forgive them that trespass against us; And lead us not into temptation, but deliver us from evil:

For thine is the kingdom, and the power, and the glory, for ever and ever. Amen.

Holy Communion

Holy Communion
A nondenominational serving of bread and wine

Though no video can truly replace the experience of celebrating together in our places of worship, we know that where two or more are gathered, the Lord is present. This table is open to all who recognize Jesus Christ as healer and redeemer. This table is open to all who work to bring God’s Kingdom here on earth. No one is turned away because of life circumstances. No one is barred from this table. No one seeking God’s abundant grace and mercy is turned aside. We see before us the abundance that a life of faith offers as we respond to God’s everlasting mercy in prayer and deed.

Communion Prayer
(Philippians 2)

Heavenly Father, as we gather in communion, united in Your love, we remember the humble example of Christ, who, though in very nature God, did not consider equality with You something to be used to His own advantage.

As we break this bread, symbolic of His body given for us, and drink from this cup, representative of His blood shed for us, let us too embrace humility. May we consider others above ourselves, looking not only to our own interests but also to the interests of others.

In this act of communion, we acknowledge Jesus' obedience to death—even death on a cross—and rejoice in the name above all names given to Him. We confess that Jesus Christ is Lord, to Your glory, O God the Father.

Strengthen us, through this sacred remembrance, to live lives worthy of the gospel of Christ. May we, in unity and love, shine like stars as we hold firmly to the word of life.

In the name of Jesus Christ, our Savior and Lord, we pray. Amen.

Benediction
(1 Samuel 3, John 1)

May the Lord call you as He called Samuel, with a voice that resonates in the depths of your soul. May you respond with a heart ready to listen and a spirit eager to obey.

As the Word became flesh and dwelt among us, full of grace and truth, may you recognize and embrace Jesus Christ, the true light that gives light to everyone.

In your journey, may you walk in the light of His love, guided by His truth, and inspired by His life. May His grace be upon you, His peace dwell within you, and His love surround you, now and always.

Go in the knowledge that the Lord is with you, speaking, guiding, and shining His light on your path. Amen.

If Jesus Returned Today

The question IS NOT WHEN WILL Jesus Return?

IT IS what will we do BEFORE He gets here?

Optional parts of the readings are set off in [square brackets].

The Bible texts of the Old Testament, Epistle, and Gospel lessons are from The Holy Bible, New International Version®, NIV® Copyright ©1973, 1978, 1984, 2011 by Biblica, Inc.® Used by permission. All rights reserved worldwide. Commentaries by Kenny Sallee, ThM.

The Daily Lectionary is a three year cyclical lectionary. We are currently in Year B. Beginning with the first Sunday of Advent in 2024, we will be in Year C. The year which ended at Advent 2023 was Year A. These readings complement the Sunday and festival readings: Thursday through Saturday readings help prepare the reader for the Sunday ahead; Monday through Wednesday readings help the reader reflect and digest on what they heard in worship. Revised Common Lectionary Daily Readings, copyright © 2005 Consultation on Common Texts. www.commontexts.org
The Sunday Lectionary and Prayers for Sunday, January 14, 2024
Second Sunday after the Epiphany
Divine Beginnings and Baptismal Waters: A Journey Through Scripture
1 Samuel 3:1-10 [11-20]; Psalm 139:1-6, 13-18; 1 Corinthians 6:12-20; John 1:43-51
Today's selection of scriptures explores the profound themes of divine guidance and the human response to it. In 1 Samuel, we witness the young Samuel learning to recognize and respond to God's voice, symbolizing the journey of faith and obedience. Psalm 139 eloquently expresses the omnipresence and omniscience of God, acknowledging His intimate knowledge and involvement in our lives. In 1 Corinthians, Paul addresses the moral and spiritual implications of being members of Christ's body, urging believers to honor God with their bodies. Finally, in John, the calling of the disciples by Jesus illustrates the transformative power of encountering Christ. Together, these passages offer a rich tapestry of insights into understanding and responding to God's call in our lives.