COMMENTARY

Lesson 1: Isaiah 63:7-9 (C); Isaiah 61:10-62:3 (E)
The prophet counts Israel's many blessings. When the Exiles returned to Jerusalem, conditions were far from good. In today's Lesson 1, the prophet recalls God's blessings on Israel in the past and asks, "Why not now?" On the basis of past "steadfast love," the nation should take courage and hope that Yahweh's blessings will continue. The covenant made at Sinai means they were the people of Yahweh, and as such he saved them from the bondage in Egypt because of his love and pity. Their sufferings were his, and in steadfast love he carried them during the good old days.

Lesson 1: Sirach 3:2-6, 12-14 (RC)
Children's responsibilities toward their parents.

Lesson 2: Hebrews 2:10-18 (C); Colossians 3:12-21 (RC)
Christ was made like …