Preface of a Saint (3)

The Collect

Almighty and everlasting God, we thank you for your servant Alexander Crummell, whom you called to preach the gospel to those who were far off and to those who were near: Raise up, in this and every land, evangelists and heralds of your kingdom, that your church may proclaim the unsearchable riches of our Savior Jesus Christ; who lives and reigns with you and the Holy Spirit, one God, now and for ever. Amen.

The First Reading

Ecclesiasticus 39:6–11

If the great Lord is willing,
he will be filled with the spirit of understanding;

he will pour forth words of wisdom of his own
and give thanks to the Lord in prayer.

The Lord will direct his counsel and knowledge,
as he meditates on his mysteries.

He will show the wisdom of what he has learned,
and will glory in the law of the Lord’s covenant.

Many will praise his understanding;
it will never be blotted out.

His memory will not disappear,
and his name will live through all generations.

Nations will speak of his wisdom,
and the congregation will proclaim his praise.

If he lives long, he will leave a name greater than a thousand,
and if he goes to rest, it is enough for him.

The Psalm

Psalm 19:7–11

Caeli enarrant

7 The law of the Lord is perfect
and revives the soul; *
the testimony of the Lord is sure
and gives wisdom to the innocent.

8 The statutes of the Lord are just
and rejoice the heart; *
the commandment of the Lord is clear
and gives light to the eyes.

9 The fear of the Lord is clean
and endures for ever; *
the judgments of the Lord are true
and righteous altogether.

10 More to be desired are they than gold,
more than much fine gold, *
sweeter far than honey,
than honey in the comb.

11 By them also is your servant enlightened, *
and in keeping them there is great reward.

The Gospel

Mark 4:21-25

Jesus said to the disciples, “Is a lamp brought in to be put under the bushel basket, or under the bed, and not on the lampstand? For there is nothing hidden, except to be disclosed; nor is anything secret, except to come to light. Let anyone with ears to hear listen!” And he said to them, “Pay attention to what you hear; the measure you give will be the measure you get, and still more will be given you. For to those who have, more will be given; and from those who have nothing, even what they have will be taken away.”

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