Tuesday 10th January

Give peace every chance 

On this day in 1920, the Treaty of Versailles formally ended World War I. On this same day in 1946—following World War II—the UN General Assembly met for the very first time, gathering on church property at the Methodist Central Hall in London. And on January 10, 1984 the United States and Vatican City reestablished full diplomatic relations after 117 years. It’s not enough for Christians to worship the Prince of Peace. “We must work tirelessly to avoid war between nations and peoples,” writes Pope Francis in Fratelli Tutti (On Fraternity and Social Friendship). “There is a need to ensure … tireless recourse to negotiation, mediation, and arbitration.” Learn more at Pax Christi USA.

Today's readings: Hebrews 2:5-12; Mark 1:21-28 (306).

Wednesday 11th January

Measure with mercy

On this day in 314—or the day before; the history is unclear—Pope Saint Miltiades died after a life of historic twists and turns that would help define the Early Church. Born to North African parents, Miltiades was the second of the Catholic Church’s three African popes, having been elected in 311, shortly after the end of the persecutions of Emperor Diocletian. As pope, Miltiades was most famous for rejecting the Donatists, who argued that apostates who repent needed to be rebaptized (and re-ordained, if priests). In an age of manifestly imperfect priests, may we model Pope Miltiades’ mercy and forgiveness for all the fallen—starting with ourselves!

Today's readings: Hebrews 2:14-18; Mark 1:29-39 (307).

Thursday 12th January

Pull back the curtain with contemplative prayer 

Fans of The Wizard of Oz relish the moment when a curtain is drawn and the Great and Terrible Oz is shown to be an ordinary man. In a way, the tradition of contemplative prayer is an attempt to pull back the curtain but with reverse results. Instead of seeing the wonderous as ordinary, contemplation is meant to move people to see the depth and intricacy and wonder of the ordinary. In other words, contemplative prayer wants us to see God’s face everywhere. Consider the times when God’s presence became tangible for you. Build a time into today to seek that presence.

Today's readings: Hebrews 3:7-14; Mark 1:40-45 (308).

Friday 13th January

The word is out 

Saint Hilary, born in Poitiers in southwest France in 315, had a learned education but was not raised Christian. Able to read the biblical languages, however, he was drawn to Christianity by the beauty and power of the prologue of the Gospel of John (John 1:1-18) and spent his life in strong defense of the divinity of Jesus, a controversial subject at the time. Recognition of his tireless efforts eventually earned him the high title of doctor of the church. Perhaps John’s prologue has a word to speak to you as well. Why not dip into its powerful language today?

 Today's readings: Hebrews 4:1-5, 11; Mark 2:1-12 (309)

Saturday 14th January

Accepted unconditionally 

Levi was an outcast of his people. Because of his position at the Roman customs post, not only he but also his family were held in disdain. His alliance with the Romans was considered treasonous and his wealth ill-gotten. Levi had many character flaws, yet Jesus chose him as a disciple, and he accepted. This is good news for the outcasts of our generation, the people our society and sometimes our church counts as unacceptable. It's good news for all of us, to be honest, as we all fall short in one way or another. Thankfully, Jesus sees past our shortcomings. Imitate Jesus before judging others.

Today's readings: Hebrews 4:12-16; Mark 2:13-17 (310).