Lesson Plans: Proper 9 (A)

Sunday between July 3 and July 9 inclusive

Old Testament Lesson Plans: God Shows the Way

Scripture: Genesis 24:34-38, 42-49, 58-67

Written by Trudy Ardizzone

The Book of Genesis provides the foundational stories of our faith, God’s calling of a people, and their often-failed responses to God and God’s steadfast love throughout. The Abraham Saga tells of the formation of the nation of Israel, beginning with the faithfulness of its patriarch Abraham. Although disillusioned with the wickedness of humanity, God separates out one family line to bring divine blessing to all subsequent families of the world. Abraham, the model of absolute faithfulness, trust, and obedience, is symbolic of Israel’s idealized self. At the request of God, Abraham has left his homeland to travel to a promised land. Abraham has entertained angels unaware and trusted God’s promise of him an heir even at the advanced old age of he and his wife, Sarah. Abraham trusted in God and made the sacrifices God asked of him. God kept the promise of making a great nation from Abraham. Abraham and Sarah’s son grew up, and it was time for Isaac to get married. Abraham makes his servant swear an oath that he will not find a wife for Isaac from the Canaanite people (who had corrupt religious practices), but from one of Abraham’s relatives. So the servant sets out with gifts and camels to the city of Nahor to seek a wife for Isaac. Before he leaves, he seeks God’s guidance and blessing on his mission.

New Testament Lesson Plans: My Yoke is Easy

Scripture: Matthew 11:16-19, 25-30

Written by the Rev. Shannon Kelly

Today’s lesson comes from a section in Matthew where John the Baptist and Jesus are talking about what Jesus’ ministry is going to be. John the Baptist had a different picture of what Jesus’ ministry would bring to the world. People are comparing what John had said and what Jesus was doing and wondering about their ministry. We hear Jesus’ response in our passage today. Jesus recognizes John’s ministry, and at the same time, he tells people that his ministry is different. John’s ministry was filled with austerity (no food and drink) as it is a period of waiting and repentance, and Jesus’ ministry is filled with celebration (eating and drinking) as it is the time of fulfillment.  The final verses lead us to see that Jesus’ ministry is also full of compassion and mercy.