Lectionary Date: December 29, 2024 [1st Sunday after Christmas, Year C]

For this Christmas lection, we look at the stories of two boys who grew up in preparation for their special callings.

Lectionary Date: December 22, 2024 [4th Sunday of Advent, Year C]

In our final Advent episode of 2024, Paul and the gang (recording in person at the Society of Biblical Literature Annual Meeting in San Diego) take a look at the political context and powerful imagery of the reading from Micah.

Lectionary Date: December 15, 2024 [3rd Sunday of Advent, Year C]

For the 3rd week of Advent, Rachel takes us to the lesser-known prophet Zephaniah, who introduces a new aspect of God's profile.

Lectionary Date: December 8, 2024 [2nd Sunday of Advent, Year C]

For the 2nd Sunday in Advent, Rosy highlights the tension in the coming of God's "messenger." We're coming to you from our conference in San Diego!

Lectionary Date: December 1, 2024 [1st Sunday of Advent, Year C]

Advent is here! And First Reading has you covered, with episodes recorded in person at our professional convention in San Diego. For Advent 1, Tim looks at the prophet Jeremiah's claim that God will hold unfaithful leaders to account.

Lectionary Date: November 24, 2024 [Reign of Christ Sunday, Year B]

It's a special party episode of First Reading, as we celebrate our 300th episode! All four hosts take a few minutes to share what has been meaningful to them about this podcasting journey. Then, we dive into some analysis and preaching tips for the first reading: 2 Samuel 23, David's "last words."

Lectionary Date: November 17, 2024 [26th Sunday after Pentecost, Year B]

Rosy opens up the story of Hannah in conversation with Jesus's "little apocalypse" in Mark.

Lectionary Date: November 10, 2024 [25th Sunday after Pentecost, Year B]

Paul explores the theological impact of Ruth's vulnerability and its redemptive power.

Lectionary Date: November 3, 2024 [24th Sunday after Pentecost, Year B]

Rosy encourages us to preach the story of a migrant family facing discrimination, as these themes also swirl in our own political moment.

Lectionary Date: October 27, 2024 [23rd Sunday after Pentecost, Year B]

Paul and Rosy pick up our ongoing conversation in the book of Job this lectionary season. This week, Paul highlights Job's shift in tone after an overwhelming barrage of divine questions.