Lector Preparation

This Week’s Readings — In Brief (Click here for full readings)

• Isaiah 66:18–21 — God calls all nations to witness His glory.

• Psalm 117:1–2 — Praise the Lord, all peoples! Spread His love.

• Hebrews 12:5–7, 11–13 — God’s loving discipline guides and strengthens us.

• Luke 13:22–30 — Enter the narrow gate; discipleship takes real commitment.

2. Proclamation Tips

• Pace: Let the meaning breathe. Don’t rush.

• Pauses: Mark commas/periods with natural pauses for clarity.

• Emphasis: Stress key words (e.g., “all nations,” “discipline,” “narrow gate”).

• Connection: Proclaim as though speaking to each listener personally.

4. Notes on Each Reading

Isaiah 66:18–21

• Theme: God gathers all nations; His plan is universal.

• Tone: Strong, hopeful, expansive.

Psalm 117:1,2

• Shortest psalm in Scripture—proclaim with joy!

• Emphasize universality: “All you nations… all you peoples.”

Hebrews 12:5–7, 11–13

• Tone: Encouraging, fatherly correction.

• Lift your voice slightly when quoting God: “My son, do not disdain the discipline of the Lord.”

Luke 13:22–30

• Tone: Urgent but hopeful.

• Slow down for: “Strive to enter through the narrow gate.”

• Stress reversal theme: “Some are last who will be first, and some are first who will be last.”