The Meditation Notes for January 2026 is prepared by Mr. Vishal Benhur from Bangalore.

January 1, 2026 – Solemnity of Mary, Mother of God
Gospel Reading: Lk 2:16–21
Context: The shepherds, still shaking from the angel choir, run to Bethlehem and find Mary, Joseph, and the baby lying in a manger—just as they were told. They cannot stop talking about the glorious message they heard. Everyone who listens is amazed. Mary says nothing out loud, but she keeps every single word and event, turning them over quietly in her heart like precious treasures. Eight days after birth, according to Jewish law, the baby is circumcised and is officially given the name Jesus—the name the angel had spoken even before He was conceived in Mary’s womb. Today the Church honours Mary as the true Mother of God.
Verse: “But Mary treasured all these words and pondered them in her heart.” (Lk 2:19)

• Engage 1: Jesus showed humility instead of boasting about the praises and compliments directed toward Him.
  Incidents: After healing a leper, Jesus strictly warns him not to tell anyone, despite the miracle inviting admiration (Mk 1:40-45); Jesus cured the deaf man and ordered not to tell anyone. But the more He did so, the more they kept talking about it (Mk 7:36).
• Engage 2: Jesus gave importance to everyone’s words, listening to all carefully.
  Incidents: Jesus listening and talking to Samaritan woman, listening to her questions, understanding her irrespective of her nature and social barriers (Jn 4:7-26); Jesus welcomed the children when the disciples sent them away (Mk 10:13-16).

January 2, 2026 – St. Basil the Great and St. Gregory Nazianzen
Gospel Reading: Jn 1:19–28
Context: Important priests and Levites come all the way from Jerusalem to the desert to question John the Baptist. They want to know exactly who he is. John keeps answering “I am not” — he is not the Messiah, not Elijah, not the Prophet. When they press him, he only says he is a voice shouting in the wilderness to prepare the road for the Lord. Then he adds something mysterious: the real Messiah is already walking among them, but they do not recognise Him, and John is not even worthy to untie His sandals.
Verse: “Among you stands one whom you do not know.” (Jn 1:26)

• Engage 1: Jesus lived as one among the crowd, a person who blends in with belongingness.
  Incidents: Jesus sitting and eating with sinners and tax collectors as He was one with them (Mk 2:16); Jesus heals the centurion’s servant and welcomes the centurion as a faithful person in all Israel (Mt 8:10).
• Engage 2: The selflessness and humility of Jesus in saving others though they do not know Him or recognise Him well.
  Incidents: The humility of Jesus observed in washing the disciples’ feet despite knowing they will leave Him (Jn 13:3-5); The selfless attitude of Jesus to serve, and not to be served (Mk 10:45).

January 3, 2026 – Most Holy Name of Jesus
Gospel Reading: Jn 1:29–34
Context: The very next day John sees Jesus coming toward him. Filled with joy he points and shouts so everyone can hear: “Look! There is the Lamb of God who takes away the sin of the whole world!” John explains that he saw the Holy Spirit come down like a dove and stay on Jesus. That was the sign from God. This is the Chosen One, the Son of God, who will baptise with the Holy Spirit.
Verse: “Here is the Lamb of God who takes away the sin of the world!” (Jn 1:29)

• Engage 1: Jesus showed the love He has for God the Father, and His willingness to fulfill the Father’s will.
  Incidents: Garden of Gethsemane (Mt 26:36-46); Being led by the Spirit and tempted by the devil before beginning the ministry (Lk 4:1-2).
• Engage 2: Jesus did everything in His capacity to help those who are struggling in sin.
  Incidents: Choosing to travel an unusual path to meet the Samaritan woman (Jn 4:4); Jesus saw Zacchaeus on the tree, yet He called, met and visited his house (Lk 19:1-10).

January 4, 2026 – Epiphany of the Lord, Solemnity
Gospel Reading: Mt 2:1–12
Context: After Jesus is born in Bethlehem, wise men from the East arrive in Jerusalem, guided by a star. They ask where the newborn King of the Jews can be found. King Herod is disturbed and secretly plots harm. The star leads the wise men to the house where they see the child with Mary His mother. They fall down and worship Him, offering gifts of gold, frankincense, and myrrh. Warned in a dream not to return to Herod, they go back to their country by another way.
Verse: “On entering the house, they saw the child with Mary his mother; and they knelt down and paid him homage.” (Mt 2:11)

• Engage 1: Jesus allows Himself to be found by those who sincerely search for Him.
  Incidents: Jesus reveals Himself to Nathanael after acknowledging his sincere search and honesty of heart (Jn 1:47–49); Jesus assures seekers that those who seek will find (Mt 7:7).
• Engage 2: Jesus leads people to God through humility and simplicity.
  Incidents: Jesus chooses to be born in a manger and laid in a humble setting, revealing God’s closeness to the poor and simple (Lk 2:7); Jesus enters Jerusalem on a donkey, showing that His kingship is rooted in humility and peace, not power or display (Mt 21:5).

January 5, 2026 – Monday after Epiphany
Gospel Reading: Mt 4:12–17, 23–25
Context: As soon as Jesus hears that John the Baptist has been arrested, He leaves Nazareth and goes to live in Capernaum by the Sea of Galilee. This fulfils the prophecy that a great light will shine in that dark region. Jesus begins preaching exactly the same message John preached: “Repent, the kingdom of heaven is at hand!” He travels all over Galilee teaching in synagogues, healing every kind of sickness, and huge crowds from everywhere begin to follow Him.
Verse: “Repent, for the kingdom of heaven has come near.” (Mt 4:17)

• Engage 1: Jesus chose to preach the hard truth, preaching to repent, to overcome earthly comforts and do the difficult things to go to heaven.
  Incidents: Teaching about cutting off what causes sin (Mt 5:29-30); stressing seriousness over comfort. The call to deny oneself, take up the cross, and follow Him (Mt 16:24).
• Engage 2: Jesus always prioritised people’s entry to heaven over His fame.
  Incidents: He withdrew from crowds when fame grew, choosing prayer and mission over publicity (Mk 1:35-38); At His trial, He remained silent and faithful to truth, even when it led to the cross rather than public approval (Mt 27:12-14).

January 6, 2026 – Tuesday after Epiphany
Gospel Reading: Mk 6:34–44
Context: Jesus steps off the boat and sees a huge crowd waiting like sheep without a shepherd. His heart is filled with tender pity. He teaches them the whole day. When evening comes the disciples want to send the people away to find food, but Jesus says, “You give them something to eat.” With only five loaves and two fish He blesses, breaks, and feeds more than five thousand people, with twelve baskets left over.
Verse: “He had compassion for them, because they were like sheep without a shepherd.” (Mk 6:34)

• Engage 1: Jesus feels along with the person who is in pain, completely and totally present emotionally.
  Incidents: Jesus witnessing the faith of two blind men, was compassionate (Mt 20:34); Jesus saw the crowds and had compassion because of their helpless and harassed state (Mt 9:36).
• Engage 2: Jesus initiates to help and care for those who are lost and need help.
  Incidents: Jesus approached Nathanael with an open heart and initiated with a positive compliment (Jn 1:47); Jesus, after resurrection initiated a conversation with the disciples saying “Children” after they abandoned Him (Jn 21:4).

January 7, 2026 – Wednesday after Epiphany
Gospel Reading: Mk 6:45–52
Context: Right after the miracle Jesus makes the disciples get into the boat and go ahead of Him while He dismisses the crowd. Then He goes up the hill alone to pray. Late at night the wind is against the boat and the disciples are struggling. In the fourth watch Jesus comes walking on the water. They think He is a ghost and cry out in fear. He immediately says, “Take heart, it is I; do not be afraid,” and the wind stops.
Verse: “Take heart, it is I; do not be afraid.” (Mk 6:50)

• Engage 1: Jesus is calm and welcoming to others who are troubled or scared, instead of judging them.
  Incidents: Jesus calmly restores the woman caught in adultery from insecurity to security (Jn 8:7-11); Jesus invites the troubled and weary towards Him and offers rest (Mt 11:28-30).
• Engage 2: Jesus assures others to be confident and strong when faced with adversaries.
  Incidents: Jesus assuring the disciples to be confident when persecutions come (Mt 10:19-22); Jesus giving strength and confidence to Zacchaeus before leaving (Lk 19:9).

January 8, 2026 – Thursday after Epiphany
Gospel Reading: Lk 4:14–22a
Context: Filled with the power of the Holy Spirit Jesus returns to Galilee. On the Sabbath in the synagogue of Nazareth He stands up to read. The scroll of Isaiah is handed to Him. He unrolls it, finds the place, and reads: “The Spirit of the Lord is upon me… to bring good news to the poor…” Then He rolls the scroll, sits down, and says, “Today this Scripture has been fulfilled in your hearing.” Everyone’s eyes are fixed on Him.
Verse: “Today this scripture has been fulfilled in your hearing.” (Lk 4:21)

• Engage 1: Jesus preaches the good news to everyone who listens.
  Incidents: Teaching large crowds by the sea, including common people and fishermen (Mk 2:13); Sharing the Good News with tax collectors and sinners, eating with them without exclusion (Lk 5:29–32).
• Engage 2: Jesus is confident while spreading the good news to everyone.
  Incidents: Fearlessly preaching repentance even when it provoked opposition (Mk 1:14-15); Continuing to teach openly despite threats from religious leaders (Jn 7:14-18).

January 9, 2026 – Friday after Epiphany
Gospel Reading: Lk 5:12–16
Context: A man covered with leprosy sees Jesus and falls on his face begging, “Lord, if you are willing, you can make me clean.” Jesus stretches out His hand, touches the untouchable man, and says gently, “I am willing. Be clean.” Immediately the leprosy leaves him. Jesus tells him to go show himself to the priest and offer the gift Moses commanded, but the news spreads fast and even bigger crowds come.
Verse: “I am willing; be made clean.” (Lk 5:13)

• Engage 1: Jesus is unconditional in expressing His love towards those who are striving to change, even touching and healing those who were restricted to be touched.
  Incidents: Jesus touching and healing a leper, breaking social and religious taboos before restoring him (Mk 1:40-45); Jesus had compassion, touched the roadside unclean beggars to heal their blindness (Mt 20:34).
• Engage 2: Jesus is gentle and kind in His approach to help others.
  Incidents: Jesus healed the crippled woman bent over for eighteen years, addressing her gently with dignity and compassion (Lk 13:10-17); Jesus showing kindness to the sinful woman who wept at His feet, affirming her love and granting forgiveness (Lk 7:36-50).

January 10, 2026 – Saturday after Epiphany
Gospel Reading: Jn 3:22–30
Context: Some of John’s disciples are upset because more people are now going to Jesus for baptism. They complain to John. John smiles and answers with joy: the bridegroom’s friend is happy when he hears the bridegroom’s voice. “He must increase, I must decrease.” John is completely happy that Jesus is becoming greater.
Verse: “He must increase, but I must decrease.” (Jn 3:30)

• Engage 1: Jesus showed a deep sense of humility in His ministry, despite His authority and power.
  Incidents: Jesus washes disciples’ feet (Jn 13:5); Jesus humbles Himself and leaves Nazareth when rejected from His hometown (Mt 13:57-58).
• Engage 2: Jesus is a kind-hearted and selfless person who lets others become better irrespective of His personal benefits or loss.
  Incidents: Jesus sent the disciples out to preach and heal, empowering them rather than running things all by Himself (Lk 9:1); Jesus chose people’s healing over personal safety despite knowing it would intensify opposition (Lk 6:6-11).

January 11, 2026 – The Baptism of the Lord (Feast)
Gospel Reading: Mt 3:13–17
Context: Jesus comes from Galilee to the Jordan to be baptised by John. John tries to stop Him, saying, “I need to be baptised by you!” But Jesus says, “Let it be so now; it is proper to fulfil all righteousness.” When Jesus comes up from the water, the heavens open, the Spirit descends like a dove, and the Father’s voice is heard: “This is my beloved Son, with whom I am well pleased.”
Verse: “This is my Son, the Beloved, with whom I am well pleased.” (Mt 3:17)

• Engage 1: Jesus showed obedience and respect towards the Father, following His will at every step of the way.
  Incidents: Resisting Satan’s temptations in the wilderness by choosing the Father’s will over power, comfort, and spectacle (Mt 4:1-11); Declaring, “My food is to do the will of Him who sent me and to complete His work” (Jn 4:34).
• Engage 2: Jesus was loved by the Father and He too loved the Father dearly; such was their relationship.
  Incidents: Jesus expressing His own love for the Father in glorifying Him (Jn 14:31); Jesus often withdrew to pray, nurturing intimate communion with the Father (Mk 1:35).

January 12, 2026 – Monday, 1st Week in Ordinary Time
Gospel Reading: Mk 1:14–20
Context: After John the Baptist is arrested, Jesus immediately begins His public mission in Galilee. His very first words are strong and clear: “The time is fulfilled, the kingdom of God is at hand; repent and believe in the gospel!” Walking along the Sea of Galilee He sees Simon and Andrew casting nets. He calls out, “Come, follow me, and I will make you fishers of men.” At once they leave their nets and follow Him. A little farther He sees James and John mending nets with their father Zebedee. Jesus calls them too; they leave their father and the boat and go after Him.
Verse: “Follow me and I will make you fish for people.” (Mk 1:17)

• Engage 1: Jesus called Simon and Andrew by their strengths, their abilities, their ability to fish. Jesus notices and acknowledges people by their strengths.
  Incidents: Choosing Matthew, a tax collector skilled in administration and records, and later entrusting him with the Gospel witness (Mt 9:9); Sending the disciples out two by two, trusting their abilities to preach and heal (Mk 6:7-13).
• Engage 2: Jesus restores the identity of the people and allows them to utilise their gifts and talents to minister for the kingdom of God.
  Incidents: Jesus restoring Zacchaeus’ identity, which allowed him to give money to the poor, and repay the debt four times (Lk 19:8); Jesus restores Samaritan woman who later brought the whole town to Jesus proclaiming He is the Messiah (Jn 4:29).

January 13, 2026 – Tuesday, 1st Week in Ordinary Time
Gospel Reading: Mk 1:21–28
Context: Jesus enters the synagogue in Capernaum on the Sabbath and begins to teach. Everyone is spellbound because He teaches with authority, not like the scribes. Suddenly a man with an unclean spirit cries out, “What have you to do with us, Jesus of Nazareth? Have you come to destroy us? I know who you are—the Holy One of God!” Jesus speaks sharply, “Be silent, and come out of him!” The spirit throws the man down and leaves. All are amazed and say, “A new teaching—with authority! Even the unclean spirits obey Him.”
Verse: “He commands even the unclean spirits, and they obey him.” (Mk 1:27)

• Engage 1: Jesus willingly entered a place of unclean spirits to deliver them. His willingness shows conviction and purpose towards the ministry.
  Incidents: Jesus entering the synagogue at Capernaum, and teaching openly (Mk 1:21-23); Jesus healing a demon-possessed man in the synagogue, restoring him publicly (Mk 1:23-26).
• Engage 2: Jesus was confident and faithful in His identity and ability to deliver the unclean spirits.
  Incidents: Jesus giving His disciples authority over unclean spirits, sharing His power confidently (Mk 6:7-13); Jesus cast out demons even when disciples failed, reaffirming divine authority over evil (Mk 9:14-29).

January 14, 2026 – Wednesday, 1st Week
Gospel Reading: Mk 1:29–39
Context: As soon as they leave the synagogue, Jesus goes to Simon’s house. Simon’s mother-in-law is sick with high fever. They tell Jesus about her right away. He takes her by the hand, lifts her up, and the fever leaves instantly. That evening the whole town gathers at the door—sick, possessed, broken people. Jesus heals many and drives out demons. Very early, while it is still dark, Jesus slips away to a lonely place to pray. When the disciples find Him, they say, “Everyone is looking for you.” Jesus replies, “Let us go to the nearby villages so I may preach there also. For this purpose have I come.”
Verse: “Let us go on to the neighbouring towns, so that I may proclaim the message there also; for that is what I came out to do.” (Mk 1:38)

• Engage 1: Jesus shows strong commitment towards His purpose in preaching and healing.
  Incidents: Jesus telling His disciples that He must go to Jerusalem and undergo many sufferings to death (Mt 16:21); Jesus discussing with the elders at the temple as a child showing strong commitment to be in the Father’s house (Lk 2:49).
• Engage 2: Jesus is purpose-oriented in all the works He does, driven with meaning at all times.
  Incidents: Jesus questioning the Pharisees in the synagogue about the purpose and meaning of the Sabbath (Mk 3:4); Jesus purposefully teaching in parables (Mk 4:10-13).

January 15, 2026 – Thursday, 1st Week
Gospel Reading: Mk 1:40–45
Context: A leper comes begging on his knees, “If you wish, you can make me clean.” Moved with deep compassion, Jesus stretches out His hand, touches the untouchable man and says, “I do will it. Be made clean.” Instantly the leprosy disappears. Jesus warns him strictly to tell no one, but to go show himself to the priest and offer the required gift. The man cannot keep quiet; he tells everyone, and soon Jesus can no longer enter towns openly.
Verse: “I do choose. Be made clean.” (Mk 1:41)

• Engage 1: Jesus showed willingness to help (heal and forgive) though others may not obey His command, or respect His help.
  Incidents: Jesus heals two blind men, though He knew they would spread the news despite asking them not to (Mt 9:27-31); Jesus heals the demoniacs in a place where no one else could pass; later, when the place became accessible to the villagers, they did not appreciate what had happened and asked Jesus to leave (Mt 8:28-34).
• Engage 2: Jesus showed profound respect to the law of the Lord and Father’s will in His mission and ministry.
  Incidents: Jesus declared He came to fulfil the law clearly (Mt 5:17); Jesus observed Sabbath worship by entering synagogues regularly to teach and pray (Lk 4:16).

January 16, 2026 – Friday, 1st Week
Gospel Reading: Mk 2:1–12
Context: Jesus returns to Capernaum and the house is packed. Four men carry a paralysed friend on a mat but cannot get near Jesus. They climb the roof, make an opening, and lower the man right in front of Jesus. Seeing their faith, Jesus says to the paralytic, “Child, your sins are forgiven.” The scribes think this is blasphemy. Jesus knows their thoughts and asks, “Which is easier—to say ‘your sins are forgiven’ or ‘rise and walk’?” Then He says, “Rise, pick up your mat and go home.” The man stands up and walks out in front of everyone.
Verse: “Son, your sins are forgiven.” (Mk 2:5)

• Engage 1: Jesus claims the paralytic as His own and loves him unconditionally, as a child who belongs to Him.
  Incidents: Jesus claimed the haemorrhaging woman as “daughter”, publicly restoring her dignity and identity after years of isolation (Mk 5:34); Jesus claimed those who do the will of the Father are His true kindred (Mt 12:50).
• Engage 2: Jesus empowered the paralytic from a sinner to a responsible person. Jesus empowers others as He heals and helps them.
  Incidents: Jesus heals the man near the pool of Bethesda and instructs him to walk and carry his mat, reclaiming his dignity and independence (Jn 5:8-9); Jesus restored the Gerasene demoniac and sent him back to his people to testify, transforming him from outcast to messenger (Mk 5:18-20).

January 17, 2026 – Saturday, 1st Week (St. Antony, Abbot)
Gospel Reading: Mk 2:13–17
Context: Jesus walks along the sea and sees Levi (Matthew), a tax collector, sitting at his customs post. Jesus simply says, “Follow me.” Levi gets up, leaves everything, and follows. Later Jesus eats at Levi’s house with many tax collectors and sinners. The Pharisees complain, “Why does He eat with sinners?” Jesus hears and answers, “Those who are well do not need a physician, but the sick do. I did not come to call the righteous but sinners.”
Verse: “I have come to call not the righteous but sinners.” (Mk 2:17)

• Engage 1: Jesus shows immense clarity in His mission to help the sinners, focused on the goals.
  Incidents: Jesus focused on His goal to heal the man with the withered hand, though He looked at others with anger because they did not accept healing and the saving of life on the Sabbath (Mk 3:4-6); Jesus sat in a boat on the sea so He could speak to the crowd more effectively (Mk 4:1-2).
• Engage 2: Jesus patiently heard the complaints of the Pharisees and responded in peace. Responding peacefully to complaints made from others.
  Incidents: Jesus patiently clarified questions about fasting with a parable, rather than arguing defensively (Mk 2:18-22); Jesus peacefully responded when accused of breaking Sabbath laws, teaching mercy over legalism (Mk 2:23-28).

January 18, 2026 – 2nd Sunday in Ordinary Time
Gospel Reading: Jn 1:29–34
Context: John the Baptist sees Jesus coming toward him and openly declares Him to be the Lamb of God who takes away the sin of the world. John testifies that he saw the Spirit descend and remain upon Jesus, confirming Him as the Son of God. John makes it clear that his mission was to reveal Jesus to Israel and that Jesus is the One who baptises with the Holy Spirit.
Verse: “Here is the Lamb of God who takes away the sin of the world.” (Jn 1:29)

• Engage 1: Jesus willingly takes upon Himself the burden of humanity’s sin.
  Incidents: Jesus accepts baptism meant for sinners, standing in solidarity with humanity (Mt 3:13–15); Jesus later offers His life on the cross as the true Paschal Lamb (Jn 19:36).
• Engage 2: Jesus lives with a clear sense of mission received from the Father.
  Incidents: Jesus sets His face toward Jerusalem, fully aware of the suffering that awaits Him, yet remaining faithful to the Father’s plan (Lk 9:51); Jesus declares that His food is to do the will of the One who sent Him and to complete His work (Jn 4:34).

January 19, 2026 – Monday, 2nd Week
Gospel Reading: Mk 2:18–22
Context: People ask Jesus why His disciples do not fast like John’s disciples and the Pharisees. Jesus replies with beautiful images: no one sews new cloth on an old cloak, and no one puts new wine into old wineskins. The bridegroom is with them now—so it is a time for joy, not fasting; fasting will come later. A completely new time has begun with Him.
Verse: “New wine is poured into fresh wineskins.” (Mk 2:22)

• Engage 1: Jesus showed understanding towards His disciples to explain the teaching in a simpler manner. Jesus understands people and simplifies it for others.
  Incidents: Jesus explained the purpose of parables privately to His disciples when they struggled to understand (Mk 4:33-34); Jesus patiently taught them about the nature of His suffering and death for the third time, even when they resisted or failed to understand (Mk 9:31-32).
• Engage 2: Jesus chooses relatable examples and scenarios for people to pay attention and listen carefully.
  Incidents: Jesus explains faithful listening to the Word of God through the parable of sower (Mt 13:1-9); Jesus explained God’s merciful and unconditional love through the parable of Prodigal Son (Lk 15:11-24).

January 20, 2026 – Tuesday, 2nd Week
Gospel Reading: Mk 2:23–28
Context: One Sabbath Jesus and His disciples walk through grain fields. The hungry disciples pluck heads of grain. The Pharisees accuse them of breaking the Sabbath. Jesus reminds them how David ate the holy bread when hungry, then declares, “The Sabbath was made for man, not man for the Sabbath. The Son of Man is Lord even of the Sabbath.”
Verse: “The sabbath was made for man, and not man for the sabbath.” (Mk 2:27)

• Engage 1: Jesus patiently explained the Sabbath as a time for fellowship and community. Jesus was patient and not frustrated in His explanation.
  Incidents: Jesus patiently clarified questions about fasting with a parable, rather than arguing defensively (Mk 2:18-22); Jesus patiently healing the bleeding woman though there was a sense of urgency and pressure from everyone around (Mk 5:29-34).
• Engage 2: Jesus does not hesitate to confront wrong teaching. He stands up and affirms the truth boldly.
  Incidents: Jesus cleansing the Temple, confronting the business exchange in the Temple (Mk 11:15-18); Jesus corrected Peter sharply when he opposed God’s plan (Mk 8:33).

January 21, 2026 – Wednesday, 2nd Week (St. Agnes)
Gospel Reading: Mk 3:1–6
Context: Again, in the synagogue, Jesus sees a man with a withered hand. The Pharisees watch to see if He will heal on the Sabbath. Jesus asks, “Is it lawful to do good or to do harm on the sabbath?” No one answers. Looking around with anger and sadness at their hardness of heart, He says to the man, “Stretch out your hand.” The hand is restored. The Pharisees leave and begin plotting to kill Him.
Verse: “Is it lawful to do good or to do harm on the sabbath, to save life or to kill?” (Mk 3:4)

• Engage 1: Jesus empowers others to reflect, contemplate and be responsible for their thoughts and actions.
  Incidents: Jesus, instead of answering, invites the Pharisees to reflect on John the Baptist’s authority in Baptism (Mk 11:27-33); Jesus questions His disciples about His identity (Mk 8:27-30).
• Engage 2: Jesus shows His intention to confront wrong convictions and help them see the truth patiently.
  Incidents: Jesus confronts the Pharisees’ understanding of purity and law with patient teaching (Mk 7:6-13); Jesus cleansing the Temple, confronting the business exchange in the Temple (Mk 11:15-18).

January 22, 2026 – Thursday, 2nd Week
Gospel Reading: Mk 3:7–12
Context: Jesus withdraws to the sea with His disciples, but huge crowds from Galilee, Judea, Jerusalem, Idumea, beyond the Jordan, and Tyre and Sidon follow Him because of all the healings. He tells His disciples to have a boat ready so the crowd does not crush Him. Whenever unclean spirits see Him they fall down and shout, “You are the Son of God!” Jesus strictly orders them not to make Him known.
Verse: “He sternly ordered them not to make him known.” (Mk 3:12)

• Engage 1: Jesus is goal-oriented, purpose-oriented, and not fame-oriented.
  Incidents: Jesus refused to perform signs on demand for admiration or proof (Mk 8:11-13); Jesus avoided public presence after feeding the crowds, choosing prayer and solitude instead (Jn 6:14-15).
• Engage 2: Jesus is determined and firm to fulfill His mission and ministry.
  Incidents: Jesus, determined in ministry, chose not to leave the attentive crowds to meet His mother and brothers (Mt 12:46-50); Jesus healed and taught despite threats and opposition from religious leaders (Mk 3:6; Jn 7:1).

January 23, 2026 – Friday, 2nd Week
Gospel Reading: Mk 3:13–19
Context: Jesus goes up a mountain and calls the ones He wants to be with Him. He appoints Twelve to be His apostles so they can preach and have authority to drive out demons. He gives Simon the name Peter, James and John the name Boanerges (sons of thunder), and the others their special roles. These Twelve will be sent out.
Verse: “And he appointed twelve, whom he also named apostles, to be with him…” (Mk 3:14)

• Engage 1: Jesus invited the Twelve to experience God’s love and wisdom by sharing His life with them.
  Incidents: Jesus shared meals with the disciples, building fellowship and trust (Mk 6:30-31); Revealing His glory to Peter, James, and John at the Transfiguration (Mk 9:2-8).
• Engage 2: Jesus showed concern for those who had not experienced His love, and He sent out the Twelve as He Himself was sent.
  Incidents: Jesus sent out disciples so that they could spread the joy that they experienced (Mk 6:12-13); Jesus commissioned them to continue His work even beyond His earthly ministry (Mt 28:19-20).

January 24, 2026 – Saturday, 2nd Week (St. Francis de Sales)
Gospel Reading: Mk 3:20–21
Context: Jesus enters a house and the crowd is so big they cannot even eat. When His relatives hear how exhausted He is and how people are saying He is out of His mind, they set out to take charge of Him, saying, “He is beside himself.”
Verse: “He is out of his mind.” (Mk 3:21)

• Engage 1: Jesus showed resilience and perseverance when faced with persecution and mockery in His ministry.
  Incidents: Jesus healed and cured a few sick even when rejected at Nazareth (Mk 6:5); Jesus endured false accusations during His trial without retaliation (Mt 27:12-14).
• Engage 2: Jesus showed immense trust, courage and faith in God’s mission and purpose of His life despite the challenges and resistance, including family and close relatives.
  Incidents: Jesus chose to obey the Father over personal safety in Jerusalem, knowing the difficulties He was going to face (Mt 21:1,12); Jesus willingly accepted the cross despite fear and anguish, trusting the Father completely (Lk 22:42).

January 25, 2026 – 3rd Sunday in Ordinary Time
Gospel Reading: Mt 4:12–23
Context: When Jesus hears John has been arrested, He withdraws to Galilee, settles in Capernaum by the sea, fulfilling Isaiah’s prophecy: “Land of Zebulun and Naphtali… the people in darkness have seen a great light.” From that day Jesus begins preaching, “Repent, the kingdom of heaven is at hand.” Walking by the sea He calls Peter, Andrew, James, and John; they leave everything and follow Him. He goes all over Galilee teaching, proclaiming the Gospel, and healing every disease.
Verse: “Repent, for the kingdom of heaven has come near.” (Mt 4:17)

• Engage 1: Jesus lovingly called people to repent, despite its difficulty.
  Incidents: Jesus allowed the sinful woman to encounter forgiveness through love and inner repentance (Lk 7:36-50); Jesus gently challenged the Rich Young Man to let go of what held him back, even when it was painful (Mk 10:17-22).
• Engage 2: Jesus emphasises being in the presence of God at all times.
  Incidents: Jesus frequently withdrew to lonely places to pray, remaining rooted in the Father’s presence (Mk 1:35); Jesus taught His disciples to pray, “Our Father”, emphasising the relationship with God the Father (Mt 6:9-13).

January 26, 2026 – Monday, 3rd Week (Ss. Timothy and Titus)
Gospel Reading: Mk 3:22–30
Context: Scribes from Jerusalem say Jesus drives out demons by the power of Beelzebul. Jesus calls them and speaks in parables: a kingdom divided cannot stand. No one can enter a strong man’s house unless he first ties him up. Then He warns solemnly, “Whoever blasphemes against the Holy Spirit will never have forgiveness.”
Verse: “All sins and all blasphemies that people utter will be forgiven them; but whoever blasphemes against the Holy Spirit can never have forgiveness…” (Mk 3:28–29)

• Engage 1: Jesus showed that God’s love and kindness are unconditional in forgiving someone.
  Incidents: Jesus showed unconditional forgiveness in forgiving those who crucified Him on the cross (Lk 23:34); Jesus restored Peter after his denial, without any condemnation (Jn 21:15-19).
• Engage 2: Jesus is selfless in expressing His strong conviction in His faith and encourages others toward their well-being.
  Incidents: Jesus taught harsh truths even when crowds misunderstood or walked away (Jn 6:60-66); Jesus remained faithful to the Father’s mission despite rejection, ridicule, and suffering (Lk 22:42).

January 27, 2026 – Tuesday, 3rd Week
Gospel Reading: Mk 3:31–35
Context: Jesus’ mother and relatives arrive and stand outside asking for Him. Someone says, “Your mother and brothers are outside looking for you.” Jesus looks at those sitting around Him and says, “Here are my mother and my brothers. Whoever does the will of God is my brother and sister and mother.”
Verse: “Whoever does the will of God is my brother and sister and mother.” (Mk 3:35)

• Engage 1: Jesus claims those who do the will of God as His own, building a relationship with them.
  Incidents: Jesus called His disciples as friends (Jn 15:14-15); Jesus accepted Mary of Bethany, who chose to sit at His feet as a disciple (Lk 10:38-42).
• Engage 2: Jesus emphasises doing the will of God, not just hearing, but in actions as well.
  Incidents: Jesus emphasises actions through the parable of the two sons (Mt 21:28-31); Jesus washed the disciples’ feet and commanded them to do likewise (Jn 13:12-17).

January 28, 2026 – Wednesday, 3rd Week (St. Thomas Aquinas)
Gospel Reading: Mk 4:1–20
Context: Jesus teaches a very large crowd by the sea from a boat. He tells the parable of the sower who scatters seed on the path, rocky ground, thorns, and good soil. Later, alone with the disciples, He explains: the seed is the Word of God; the different soils are the different ways people receive it.
Verse: “The mystery of the kingdom of God has been granted to you.” (Mk 4:11)

• Engage 1: Jesus is kind and generous in His interactions.
  Incidents: Jesus explained the parable of the sower privately to His disciples instead of leaving them confused (Mk 4:10-20); Jesus corrected the disciples in private with kindness when they could not heal and lacked faith (Mt 17:20-21).
• Engage 2: Jesus is honest about the kingdom of God as a mystery.
  Incidents: Jesus is honest in teaching that many may try yet still fail (Lk 13:24); Jesus is honest with the disciples about the betrayer being one among them (Mt 26:23-25).

January 29, 2026 – Thursday, 3rd Week
Gospel Reading: Mk 4:21–25
Context: Jesus teaches the crowd with short images: a lamp is not put under a basket but on a stand; everything hidden will come to light. “Take care, then, how you hear. The measure with which you measure will be measured back to you.”
Verse: “The measure you give will be the measure you get, and still more will be given you.” (Mk 4:24)

• Engage 1: Jesus selflessly wills the good of the other, encouraging others for their growth and benefit in their life.
  Incidents: Jesus being selfless and forgiving without limits (Mt 18:21-22); Jesus restored Peter after failure, enabling him to grow into leadership rather than remain in guilt (Jn 21:15-19).
• Engage 2: Jesus is so loving that He sees a lamp in everyone that is good and useful for others.
  Incidents: Jesus called Simon, “Peter” (rock) despite his fragility, seeing the leader he would become (Jn 1:42); Jesus affirmed the faith of the woman with the haemorrhage, bringing her hidden courage into the light (Mk 5:25-34).

January 30, 2026 – Friday, 3rd Week
Gospel Reading: Mk 4:26–34
Context: Jesus speaks only in parables to the crowds. Two short ones: the seed grows day and night whether the farmer sleeps or wakes; and the tiny mustard seed becomes the largest of plants. Alone with His disciples He explains everything.
Verse: “This is what the kingdom of God is like. A man scatters seed on the ground.” (Mk 4:26)

• Engage 1: Jesus is immensely patient while working to build the Kingdom of God, instead of rushing or taking control, He was patient in His thoughts and deeds.
  Incidents: Jesus formed the disciples with patience (Mk 8:17-21); Jesus patiently explained the parables privately to the disciples while being kind (Mk 4:33-34).
• Engage 2: Jesus, with His whole heart trusts the Father in spreading the good news in every step of the way.
  Incidents: Jesus began His ministry with prayer and solitude (Mk 1:35); Jesus chose ordinary fishermen as disciples, trusting the Father (Mk 1:16-20).

January 31, 2026 – Saturday, 3rd Week (St. John Bosco)
Gospel Reading: Mk 4:35–41
Context: Evening comes. Jesus says, “Let us cross to the other side.” They take Him in the boat. A violent storm arises; waves are breaking over the boat. Jesus is asleep on a cushion. The terrified disciples wake Him: “Teacher, do you not care that we are perishing?” He rises, rebukes the wind and says to the sea, “Quiet! Be still!” Everything becomes perfectly calm. Then He asks them, “Why are you terrified? Do you not yet have faith?”
Verse: “Why are you afraid? Have you still no faith?” (Mk 4:40)

• Engage 1: Jesus is a person with faith and encourages others to have faith in their lives.
  Incidents: Jesus calmed the storm, and guided disciples toward trust (Mk 4:35-41); Jesus appreciated and praised the faith of the centurion (Mt 8:10).
• Engage 2: Jesus is faithful to the Father especially in times of distress and difficulties.
  Incidents: Jesus withdrew to pray before beginning the Galilean ministry (Mk 1:35); Jesus endured the cross while faithfully entrusting His spirit into the Father’s hands (Lk 23:46).