First reading
Israel is a luxuriant vine that yields its fruit. The more his fruit increased the more altars he built; as his country improved, he improved his pillars.
Their heart is false; now they must bear their guilt. The Lord will break down their altars, and destroy their pillars.
For now they will say: “We have no king, for we do not fear the Lord, and a king — what could he do for us?” Samaria’s king shall perish like a chip on the face of the waters.
The high places of Aven, the sin of Israel, shall be destroyed. Thorn and thistle shall grow up on their altars. They shall say to the mountains, “Cover us,” and to the hills, “Fall on us.”
Sow for yourselves righteousness; reap steadfast love; break up your fallow ground; for it is time to seek the Lord, that he may come and rain righteousness upon you.