Gospel Lesson Plan
Because in the mystery of the Word made flesh, you have caused a new light to shine in our hearts, to give the knowledge of your glory in the face of your Son Jesus Christ our Lord. (Book of Common Prayer, page 378)
Accept the light we have received and shine it forth! It is not about shining the light in other’s faces, blinding them, but holding the light in open hands.
Old Testament Lesson Plan
Most of the lessons in this season are from Isaiah. Isaiah was an educated man, as was Micah. Isaiah, a member of the nobility, preached justice and love in obedience to God’s call. It should be explained to the children that someone who had many things thought it was essential that he listen and obey the call of God… to represent his relationship with God through his relationship with others less fortunate. He was to represent God’s Light to the world and preach about that Light coming into the world.
| Year A | Date | Scripture | Old Testament Lesson Plan | Gospel Lesson Plan |
|---|---|---|---|---|
| Baptism of the Lord (First Sunday after the Epiphany) | Sunday between January 7 and January 13 | Isaiah 42:1-9 Matthew 3:13-17 | The Light of God’s Promise | Anointed with The Holy Spirit and With Power |
| Second Sunday after the Epiphany | Sunday between January 14 and January 20 | Isaiah 49:1-7 John 1:29-42 | The Light of Christ | Following the Light |
| Third Sunday after the Epiphany | Sunday between January 21 and January 27 | Isaiah 9:1-4 Matthew 4:12-23 | Changing Darkness into Light | A Light has Dawned |
| Feast of the Presentation | February 2 | Malachi 3:1-4 Luke 2:22-40 | n/a | A Light to the Nations |
| Fourth Sunday after the Epiphany | Sunday between January 28 and February 3 | Micah 6:1-8 Matthew 5:1-12 | Justice, Mercy, Walk Humbly | Life-giving Attitudes |
| Fifth Sunday after the Epiphany | Sunday between February 4 and February 10 | Isaiah 58:1-9a, (9b-12) Matthew 5:13-20 | The Light of Christ | Let your Light Shine |
| Sixth Sunday after the Epiphany | Sunday between February 11 and February 17 | Deuteronomy 30:15-20 Matthew 5:21-37 | Living in Covenant | New Ways for a New Kingdom |
| Seventh Sunday after the Epiphany | Sunday between February 18 and February 24 | Leviticus 19:1-2, 9-18 Matthew 5:38-48 | Be Holy, For I am Holy | Choosing Peace |
| Eighth Sunday after the Epiphany | Sunday between February 25 and February 29 | Isaiah 49:8-16a Matthew 6:24-34 | I Will Not Forget You | Do Not Worry about Tomorrow |
| Last Sunday after the Epiphany | Exodus 24:12-18 Matthew 17:1-9 | Following God | The Disciples See the Brightness of Jesus |