First Reading
Joel 2:12-18
Read this as the first big movement of the day. Notice what God is doing, who is speaking, and what part of the story or teaching should stay with you.
12Now therefore says the Lord: Be converted to me with all your heart, in fasting, and in weeping, and in mourning.
13And rend your hearts, and not your clothes, and turn to the Lord your God: for he is gracious and merciful, patient and rich in mercy, and ready to repent of the evil.
14Who knows but he will return, and forgive, and leave a blessing behind him, sacrifice and libation to the Lord your God?
15Blow the trumpet in Sion, sanctify a fast, call a solemn assembly,
16Gather together the people, sanctify the church, assemble the leaders, gather together the little ones, and them that suck at the breasts: let the bridegroom go forth from his bed, and the bride out of her bride chamber.
17Between the porch and the altar the priests the Lord's ministers shall weep, and shall say: Spare, OH Lord, spare your people: and give not your gift to shame, that the nations should rule over them. Why should they say among the nations: Where is their God?
18The Lord has been zealous for his land, and has spared his people.