St. James Lectionary Scriptures for 06 21 2026

​St. James Presbyterian Church Bible Study Companion Guide
Twelfth Sunday in Ordinary Time · Year A
Scripture Focus: Psalm 86:1–10, 16–17 · Genesis 21:8–21 ·
Romans 6:1b–11 · Matthew 10:24–39
WHY THESE TEXTS FOR THIS SUNDAY
This week’s readings bring us into prayer, wilderness, new life, and courage.
We begin with Psalm 86, a prayer from someone who needs God to listen, help, teach, and strengthen. The psalm gives us words for honest prayer.
In Genesis 21, Hagar and Ishmael are sent into the wilderness. The story is painful, yet God hears the child’s cry and opens Hagar’s eyes to water.
In Romans 6, Paul reminds the church that baptism joins us to Christ’s death and resurrection. We are called to walk in newness of life.
In Matthew 10, Jesus tells the disciples not to be afraid. Following him may be costly, yet God knows and holds them.
Together, these texts ask us to trust that God hears, God provides, God raises, and God gives courage.
OPENING THOUGHTS FOR THE TEXTS
Psalm 86:1–10, 16–17
The psalm begins with need: “Incline your ear, O Lord, and answer me.” This is prayer without pretending. The psalmist trusts God’s mercy, goodness, and steadfast love.
Genesis 21:8–21
Hagar and Ishmael are pushed into the wilderness with little to survive on. When the water is gone, Hagar cannot bear to watch her child die. Yet God hears the voice of the boy, speaks to Hagar, and opens her eyes to a well.
Romans 6:1b–11
Paul teaches that baptism is not only about forgiveness. It is about new life. In Christ, the old powers do not have the final word. We are invited to live as people who are alive to God.
Matthew 10:24–39
Jesus prepares the disciples for resistance. He tells them not to be afraid and reminds them that God knows even the sparrows. Faithfulness may disturb false peace, yet disciples are called to speak truth with courage.
FOR REFLECTION
• What phrase from Psalm 86 feels most like your prayer this week?
• What do you notice about God hearing Ishmael in the wilderness?
• Where might God be opening your eyes to a well you had not seen?
• What might it mean to “walk in newness of life” this week?
• Where is Jesus asking you not to be afraid?
A PRACTICE FOR THE WEEK
Each day, pray one line from Psalm 86 before you begin the day:
“Incline your ear, O Lord, and answer me.”
“Be gracious to me, O Lord.”
“Teach me your way, O Lord.”
“Give your strength to your servant.”
Then ask:
Where do I need God to hear me?
Where do I need my eyes opened?
Where am I being invited into new life?
Where do I need courage?
CLOSING PRAYER
Merciful God, incline your ear and hear us. Meet us in our need, open our eyes to the wells of life, and teach us your way. Help us walk in newness of life, and give us courage to follow Christ without fear. Amen.