COMMENTARY

Lesson 1: Joel 2:21-27
The first part of this chapter (vv. 1-17) is the traditional text for Ash Wednesday. These verses call the people to a solemn assembly so that they might repent of their sins and plead for Yahweh's mercy. This action is ordered because of a devastating invasion of locusts. Our lection for Thanksgiving follows the call to repentance with a message of hope and restoration. God will restore the land to fertility; the earth will yield its increase and the people of God will give thanks for all his blessings. "You shall eat in plenty and be satisfied, and praise the name of the Lord your God, who has dealt so wondrously with you" (v. 26).

Lesson 2: 1 Timothy 2:1-7
Paul urges that prayers and supplications be offered for all people and especially for those who…