Sunday, February 8, 2026 – 5th Sunday after Epiphany

Readings: Isaiah 58:1–9; Psalm 112:1–10; 1 Corinthians 2:1–12; Matthew 5:13–20

God’s call this week is not to be louder or more impressive, but more faithful. Isaiah reminds us that true worship shows up as justice, repair, and care for those pushed to the margins. Jesus names his followers as salt and light—not flashy, not dominating, but quietly transformative. Paul echoes this, pointing away from cleverness or power and toward a wisdom rooted in the Spirit. Faith that shines does so in ordinary places: relationships, neighborhoods, daily choices. What seems small—kindness, integrity, presence—can change everything.

Question for contemplation:
Where might God be inviting me to be salt or light in a very ordinary, even unnoticed, place?

Prayer:
God of quiet power, shape our lives so that your love is made visible through us. Free us from the need to impress, and ground us instead in faithfulness, compassion, and courage. Let your Spirit guide our words and actions, that what we do brings light where there is weariness and hope where there is harm. Amen.

Intention for the day:
Practice one intentional act of kindness or justice—small but concrete—trusting that God can use it to bring light beyond what you can see.

Monday, February 9, 2026
Psalm 119:105–112; 2 Kings 22:3–20; Romans 11:2–10

God’s word breaks into history like a lamp in a dark room. In Josiah’s day, rediscovery leads to repentance and reform, reminding us that faith often begins again with listening. Paul names how easily people grow resistant to God’s ways, not from malice but from dullness of heart. Light does not force itself—it reveals, invites, and waits for response. Shining begins with attentiveness.

Question for contemplation:
What might God be trying to illuminate for me right now that I have overlooked or avoided?

Prayer:
God of truth, open our ears to hear and our hearts to receive your word. When we have grown comfortable in the shadows, gently lead us back into your light. Amen.

Intention:
Spend a few quiet minutes with Scripture today, listening for a word or phrase that calls you toward clarity or change.

Tuesday, February 10, 2026
Psalm 119:105–112; 2 Kings 23:1–8, 21–25; 2 Corinthians 4:1–12

Josiah does more than listen—he acts. Reform is costly and disruptive, yet it restores integrity to the community. Paul reminds us that God’s light shines through fragile vessels, not perfect ones. Faithfulness is not about strength but persistence. Even when cracked, we can still carry light.

Question for contemplation:
What faithful action—however imperfect—am I being invited to take?

Prayer:
God of renewal, give us courage to live what we believe. Use our ordinary lives, even our weaknesses, to reflect your grace. Amen.

Intention:
Take one small step that aligns your actions with your values, trusting God with the outcome.

Wednesday, February 11, 2026
Psalm 119:105–112; Proverbs 6:6–23; John 8:12–30

Wisdom teaches us that light is sustained through daily discipline. Jesus names himself as the light of the world, offering guidance that leads to life. This light exposes truth—not to shame us, but to free us. Following the light is rarely dramatic; it is practiced in steady obedience.

Question for contemplation:
What daily habit might help me walk more consistently in God’s light?

Prayer:
Jesus, light of the world, guide our steps when the path feels unclear. Shape our daily choices so they reflect your truth and love. Amen.

Intention:
Choose one small, repeatable practice that helps you stay grounded in faith this week.

Thursday, February 12, 2026
Psalm 2; Exodus 6:2–9; Hebrews 8:1–7

God speaks promises to people who are exhausted and discouraged. Liberation takes time, and hope can feel fragile before change arrives. Hebrews reminds us that God’s covenant is rooted not in human power but divine faithfulness. Even when circumstances feel stuck, God’s purposes continue unfolding.

Question for contemplation:
Where do I need to trust God’s promise more than my present circumstances?

Prayer:
Faithful God, when hope feels thin, remind us that your promises endure. Strengthen us to trust your work beyond what we can see. Amen.

Intention:
Name one situation where you will practice patience and trust instead of control today.

Friday, February 13, 2026
Psalm 2; Exodus 19:9b–25; Hebrews 11:23–28

God’s holiness both awes and unsettles. Moses responds with reverence and courage, choosing faith over fear. Hebrews names the cost of faithfulness—and its quiet strength. Light does not eliminate struggle, but it gives meaning and direction within it.

Question for contemplation:
What fear might God be asking me to release in order to live more faithfully?

Prayer:
Holy God, teach us to stand with reverence and courage in your presence. Help us trust that obedience, even when costly, leads toward life. Amen.

Intention:
Practice courage today by acting in alignment with your faith, even if it feels uncomfortable.

Saturday, February 14, 2026
Psalm 2; 1 Kings 21:20–29; Mark 9:9–13

Even flawed repentance matters to God. Ahab’s partial humility is met with mercy, reminding us that God responds to sincerity, not perfection. Jesus speaks of suffering and transformation, pointing to a light that emerges through loss. God’s grace meets us even when change is incomplete.

Question for contemplation:
Where might God be inviting me into deeper humility or repentance?

Prayer:
Merciful God, meet us where we are and lead us where we need to go. Shape our hearts toward humility, honesty, and hope. Amen.

Intention:
End the week