We’re now into the second week of May, and the Old Testament readings are especially compelling. We’re witnessing the close of David’s reign and the rise of Solomon, marked by the construction of the temple and the bringing of the Ark into its sacred place. These moments are steeped in spiritual meaning and rich biblical imagery.

In the New Testament, the readings take us to the very heart of our faith. Luke draws us into the death and resurrection of Jesus—events that changed everything. From there, we move into the Gospel of John, with its unique voice and profound theological depth.

week 2: 7 – 13 May

OT – 2 Samuel 22-1 Kings 9:9

David’s song of praise celebrates the greatness of God – his power in salvation, his strength in battle and his gift of victory over our enemies. Empowered by God’s Spirit, David reigns—and we too are invited to reign in life through that same Spirit. David’s mighty men are noted for their loyalty, faith and courage. Yet even David falters, taking a census without consulting the Lord, and judgement comes. The plague is halted only when David builds an altar on the threshing floor—pointing ahead to the greater sacrifice of Christ. Solomon becomes king and there is both grace and judgement in David’s last words to him. The young king asks for wisdom to rule and receives it, along with wealth and honour. His reign begins well, marked by wise judgements and growing fame and prosperity. He turns to his great task: building the temple with excellence and reverence. The Ark is brought to the temple and the glory of God fills the place. Solomon’s prayer of dedication makes it clear that the temple is primarily to be a place of prayer. God’s promise to him is clear – if Solomon walks in his ways, he will establish Solomon’s descendants as a royal dynasty. But if not, ruin will come, and even the temple will stand as a sign of what was lost.

May 7: 2 Sam 22:1-23:7; May 8: 2 Sam 23:8-24:25; May 9: 1 Kings 1:1-2:12; May 10: 1 Kings 2:13-3:28; May 11: 1 Kings 4-5; May 12: 1 Kings 6-7; May 13: 1 Kings 8:1-9:9.

See here for an introduction to 1 Kings.

NT – Luke 23:1-John 1:51

Once again we are reading of the event that is central to our salvation – the death of Christ on the cross. Luke’s account includes the promise of paradise for the repentant thief on the cross. After the resurrection, his conversation with two of his disciples shows him opening the Scriptures to them. He also opens their eyes so that they can understand how he is the fulfilment of all that is spoken of in the Scriptures. He stresses the importance of them staying in the city until the Holy Spirit clothes them with power. The gospel of John begins and Jesus is introduced as the eternal Word of God, one with God, who has been made flesh and come into the world. He is the light of the world and there is life in him. He brings spiritual new birth. John the Baptist is the witness to the light and points to Jesus as the Lamb of God. Jesus calls his first disciples and prepares them for amazing things, seeing heaven come to earth.

May 7: Luke 23:1-25; May 8: Luke 23:26-56; May 9: Luke 24:1-24; May 10: Luke 24:25-53; May 11: John 1:1-18; May 12: John 1:19-34; May 13: John 1:35-51

See here for an introduction to John’s Gospel