Today is Friday the 13th of February, in the 5th week of Ordinary Time.

Juliano Ravanello sings Veni Creator Spiritus: Come, Creator Spirit.

Veni Creator Spiritus

Mentes tuorum visita

Imple superna gratia

Quae tu creasti pectora

Qui diceris Paraclitus

Donum Dei altissimi

Fons vivus ignis caritas

Et spiritalis unctio

Tu septiformis munere

Dextrae Dei tu digitus

Tu rite promissum Patris

Sermone ditans guttura

Accende lumen sensibus

Infunde amorem cordibus

Infirma nostri corporis

Virtute firmans perpeti

Hostem repellas longius

Pacemque dones protinus

Ductore sic te praevio

Vitemus omne noxium

Per te sciamus da Patrem

Noscamus atque Filium

Te utriusque Spiritum

Credamus omni tempore

Amen

Come, Holy Ghost, Creator, come

from thy bright heav'nly throne;

come, take possession of our souls,

and make them all thine own.

Thou who art called the Paraclete,

best gift of God above,

the living spring, the living fire,

sweet unction and true love.

Thou who art sevenfold in thy grace,

finger of God's right hand;

his promise, teaching little ones

to speak and understand.

O guide our minds with thy blest light,

with love our hearts inflame;

and with thy strength, which ne'er decays,

confirm our mortal frame.

Far from us drive our deadly foe;

true peace unto us bring;

and through all perils lead us safe

beneath thy sacred wing.

Through thee may we the Father know,

through thee th'eternal Son,

and thee the Spirit of them both,

thrice-blessed three in One.

Today’s reading is from the Gospel of Mark.

Mark 7:31-37

Then [Jesus] returned from the region of Tyre, and went by way of Sidon towards the Sea of Galilee, in the region of the Decapolis. They brought to him a deaf man who had an impedimentin his speech; and they begged him to lay his hand on him. He took him aside in private, away from the crowd, and put his fingers into his ears, and he spat and touched his tongue. Then looking up to heaven, he sighed and said to him, ‘Ephphatha’, that is, ‘Be opened.’ And immediately his ears were opened, his tongue was released, and he spoke plainly. Then Jesus ordered them to tell no one; but the more he ordered them, the more zealously they proclaimed it. They were astounded beyond measure, saying, ‘He has done everything well; he even makes the deaf to hear and the mute to speak.’

In today’s passage, Jesus continues further into Gentile territory. Let us take our own imaginative journey to join the disciples—walking among the hills of the Decapolis, now welcoming the people who come to listen and to ask for healing. As you observe quietly and attentively, you see the man being brought forward. What do you imagine is going through his mind as the crowd’s expectation hums around them both?

Jesus seems to have no issue with public healing, yet this man is deaf and unable to speak - trapped in his inner world. Notice how Jesus takes him aside privately. This small act acknowledges the man’s dignity; he will not be made a spectacle. How does this invite you to reflect on your own personal relationship with Jesus? Do these moments draw you beyond the noise of the world?

The command “Be opened”- Ephphatha - is gentle yet powerful. That Mark chooses to preserve the word in Aramaic echoes the intimacy of the encounter. This is Jesus’ own word, carried across the centuries.

How do you respond to this command? What needs to be opened - your ears to listen, your heart to forgive, your mind to perceive God’s action?

As you listen to the passage again, notice how the delight of the crowd cannot be contained - healing and grace overflow naturally. Recall a moment of joy God has brought about in your life recently, something you might share quietly or boldly.

Mark 7:31-37

Then [Jesus] returned from the region of Tyre, and went by way of Sidon towards the Sea of Galilee, in the region of the Decapolis. They brought to him a deaf man who had an impedimentin his speech; and they begged him to lay his hand on him. He took him aside in private, away from the crowd, and put his fingers into his ears, and he spat and touched his tongue. Then looking up to heaven, he sighed and said to him, ‘Ephphatha’, that is, ‘Be opened.’ And immediately his ears were opened, his tongue was released, and he spoke plainly. Then Jesus ordered them to tell no one; but the more he ordered them, the more zealously they proclaimed it. They were astounded beyond measure, saying, ‘He has done everything well; he even makes the deaf to hear and the mute to speak.’

“He even makes the deaf to hear and the mute to speak.” Jesus invites us to be opened. In prayer, speak to the Lord about what has been opened in you today.

Glory be to the Father and to the Son and to the Holy Spirit.

As it was in the beginning, is now and ever shall be

World without end

Amen

Paul Zach sings, ‘Have Mercy On Me’.

Jesus, son of David

Have mercy

Have mercy on me

When I hear you passing by

When the crowd ignores my cry

With all my heart and soul and mind

Louder still, O Lord, I cry

Jesus, son of David

Have mercy

Have mercy on me

Today’s reading is from the Gospel of Mark.

Mark 7:24-30

From there he set out and went away to the region of Tyre. He entered a house and did not want anyone to know he was there. Yet he could not escape notice, but a woman whose little daughter had an unclean spirit immediately heard about him, and she came and bowed down at his feet. Now the woman was a Gentile, of Syrophoenician origin. She begged him to cast the demon out of her daughter. He said to her, ‘Let the children be fed first, for it is not fair to take the children’s food and throw it to the dogs.’ But she answered him, ‘Sir, even the dogs under the table eat the children’s crumbs.’ Then he said to her, ‘For saying that, you may go—the demon has left your daughter.’ So she went home, found the child lying on the bed, and the demon gone.

In this passage, Jesus has been in debate with the religious leaders and seems to have deliberately decided to go into Gentile territory. Perhaps he imagined it would give him some breathing space from the crowds he had been ministering to, but he is now known to the Gentiles as well. When he enters a house in Tyre, he is hoping not to be disturbed. What state of mind do you imagine Jesus is in? How do you relate to this sense of how he feels?

Nevertheless, Jesus is already too well known, even here, to escape notice. The woman shows both humility and courage. She is desperate; she cannot give up because she carries her daughter’s suffering in her prayers. She begs even as Jesus speaks words that sound harsh, even dismissive. How do you bring your desires or needs to the Lord? How might you expect your prayers to be received?

The woman persists, showing a faith that breaks boundaries, and Jesus’ challenging response invites a deeper trust and a humble yet clever response. As the conversation continues, are you reassured? Do you sense that here is a God who listens deeply, who invites honest persistence, and who allows human faith to have a voice?

As we listen to the passage again, perhaps consider whether there are those we encounter whom we consider “outside” our concern.

Mark 7:24-30

From there he set out and went away to the region of Tyre. He entered a house and did not want anyone to know he was there. Yet he could not escape notice, but a woman whose little daughter had an unclean spirit immediately heard about him, and she came and bowed down at his feet. Now the woman was a Gentile, of Syrophoenician origin. She begged him to cast the demon out of her daughter. He said to her, ‘Let the children be fed first, for it is not fair to take the children’s food and throw it to the dogs.’ But she answered him, ‘Sir, even the dogs under the table eat the children’s crumbs.’ Then he said to her, ‘For saying that, you may go—the demon has left your daughter.’ So she went home, found the child lying on the bed, and the demon gone.

“For saying that, you may go.” In this time of prayer, place yourself before Jesus, just as you are, and notice how he looks at you as you open your heart to trust in his mercy.

Glory be to the Father and to the Son and to the Holy Spirit.

As it was in the beginning, is now and ever shall be

World without end

Amen

The monks of Pluscarden Abbey sing Laetetur cor quaerentium: Let the heart of those who seek the Lord rejoice; seek the Lord and be strengthened, seek his face always. Entering into prayer today, we are also seeking the Lord, seeking his face, looking for the signs of his presence in our lives, gently guiding us in truth and peace and love.

Laetetur cor quaerentium Dominum:

quaerite Dominum, et confirmamini:

quaerite faciem eius semper.

Confitemini Domino, et invocate nomen ejus:

annuntiate intergentes opera eius.

Today’s reading is from the Gospel of Mark.

Mark 7:14-23

Then [Jesus] called the crowd again and said to them, ‘Listen to me, all of you, and understand: there is nothing outside a person that by going in can defile, but the things that come out are what defile.’

When he had left the crowd and entered the house, his disciples asked him about the parable. He said to them, ‘Then do you also fail to understand? Do you not see that whatever goes into a person from outside cannot defile, since it enters, not the heart but the stomach, and goes out into the sewer?’ (Thus he declared all foods clean.) And he said, ‘It is what comes out of a person that defiles. For it is from within, from the human heart, that evil intentions come: fornication, theft, murder, adultery, avarice, wickedness, deceit, licentiousness, envy, slander, pride, folly. All these evil things come from within, and they defile a person.’

In this passage Jesus turns from the leaders to speak to the people. He has been listening to the accusations about not observing the traditions of the elders. What is your immediate response to what he is saying? Do you feel conviction, relief, or perhaps discomfort?

Picture Jesus addressing the crowd. Perhaps they have been entertained by the ‘to and fro’ of the debate so far. But now Jesus focuses on them. Imagine Jesus pointing not outward to rituals or traditions, but inward, to the human heart.

What is your reaction as He calls attention to the spirit of the inner life rather than the written word of law?

We may not worry about clean and unclean foods on religious grounds, but we may sometimes judge other’s commitment by how we measure their behaviour against our own. As we listen to the passage again, consider where God is inviting you to greater honesty and integrity within.

Mark 7:14-23

Then [Jesus] called the crowd again and said to them, ‘Listen to me, all of you, and understand: there is nothing outside a person that by going in can defile, but the things that come out are what defile.’

When he had left the crowd and entered the house, his disciples asked him about the parable. He said to them, ‘Then do you also fail to understand? Do you not see that whatever goes into a person from outside cannot defile, since it enters, not the heart but the stomach, and goes out into the sewer?’ (Thus he declared all foods clean.) And he said, ‘It is what comes out of a person that defiles. For it is from within, from the human heart, that evil intentions come: fornication, theft, murder, adultery, avarice, wickedness, deceit, licentiousness, envy, slander, pride, folly. All these evil things come from within, and they defile a person.’

In a moment of prayer, ask the Holy Spirit for guidance in whatever way you need.

Glory be to the Father and to the Son and to the Holy Spirit.

As it was in the beginning, is now and ever shall be

World without end

Amen

One Hope Project sings, ‘Where the Lord Dwells’.

The green grass on the other side

Looks so good but it won't satisfy

The grass is greener on the inside

Where the Lord dwells, where the Lord dwells

Only You can satisfy

I looked elsewhere but I could not find

The meaning of this gift of life

True love is found on the inside

Where the Lord dwells, where the Lord dwells

Only You can satisfy

Jesus, living water

A well that never will run dry

Jesus, my saviour

Your love will always satisfy

The grave could not hold You in

You rose and conquered death and sin

That same power lives on the inside

Where the Lord dwells, where the Lord dwells

Only You can satisfy

Jesus, living water

A well that never will run dry (only You can satisfy)

Jesus, my saviour

Your love will always satisfy (only You can satisfy)

I'll be called home when it is my time

When I've run this race to the finish line

Where the Lord dwells, Forever You will satisfy

Today’s reading is from the First Book of Kings.

1 Kings 8:22-23, 27-30

Then Solomon stood before the altar of the Lord in the presence of all the assembly of Israel, and spread out his hands to heaven. He said, ‘O Lord, God of Israel, there is no God like you in heaven above or on earth beneath, keeping covenant and steadfast love for your servants who walk before you with all their heart.

‘But will God indeed dwell on the earth? Even heaven and the highest heaven cannot contain you, much less this house that I have built! Have regard to your servant’s prayer and his plea, O Lord my God, heeding the cry and the prayer that your servant prays to you today; that your eyes may be open night and day towards this house, the place of which you said, “My name shall be there”, that you may heed the prayer that your servant prays towards this place. Hear the plea of your servant and of your people Israel when they pray towards this place; O hear in heaven your dwelling-place; heed and forgive.’

Today is the feast of St Scholastica, the first Benedictine nun and a disciple of her brother, St Benedict. She was inspired to learn the wisdom of the heart, so much so that she is said to have surpassed even her brother in charity.

In today’s reading, Solomon acknowledges two things. On the one hand, God is infinite, beyond any temple or human comprehension: “Even heaven and the highest heaven cannot contain you.” On the other hand, Solomon invites God to be present in the Temple, trusting that God hears the prayers of his people.

Ignatius often invites us to notice both God’s grandeur and His intimacy: God is infinite, yet chooses to meet us where we are. The Temple, though magnificent, does not confine God; rather, God’s presence fills wherever we open ourselves to prayer and devotion.

Are there times when you try to “contain” God in your life, expecting God only in certain places, times, or rituals?

We might also reflect that Jesus’ sacramental presence in the tabernacle is a reminder of his real presence in all the people we meet and in all the experiences we have. Every person, every experience, is a sacrament of God’s loving presence. How might you imagine God dwelling within your heart as you go about your day?

As we listen to the passage again, reflect on where you might invite the Lord to dwell more fully in your daily life, in your work, relationships, and thoughts.

1 Kings 8:22-23, 27-30

Then Solomon stood before the altar of the Lord in the presence of all the assembly of Israel, and spread out his hands to heaven. He said, ‘O Lord, God of Israel, there is no God like you in heaven above or on earth beneath, keeping covenant and steadfast love for your servants who walk before you with all their heart.

‘But will God indeed dwell on the earth? Even heaven and the highest heaven cannot contain you, much less this house that I have built! Have regard to your servant’s prayer and his plea, O Lord my God, heeding the cry and the prayer that your servant prays to you today; that your eyes may be open night and day towards this house, the place of which you said, “My name shall be there”, that you may heed the prayer that your servant prays towards this place. Hear the plea of your servant and of your people Israel when they pray towards this place; O hear in heaven your dwelling-place; heed and forgive.’

“Even heaven and the highest heaven cannot contain you.” In this time of prayer, rest in the closeness of the Lord’s presence. What might you ask of him now?

Glory be to the Father and to the Son and to the Holy Spirit.

As it was in the beginning, is now and ever shall be

World without end

Amen

The Community of Taizé sings Ubi caritas est vera, Deus ibi est. Wherever love is true, God is there.

If there are people around you, look at them. If there aren’t, recall the faces you see regularly. Look into their faces. Think of the lives they lead. If you’re on a bus or train, think about their lives when they get off... their work, their worries, their passions, their loves. God is present here: the God who is love. Present, living, dwelling in every one of these people, and in you.

Today’s reading is from the Gospel of Mark.

Mark 6:53-56

When they had crossed over, they came to land at Gennesaret and moored the boat. When they got out of the boat, people at once recognized him, and rushed about that whole region and began to bring the sick on mats to wherever they heard he was. And wherever he went, into villages or cities or farms, they laid the sick in the market-places, and begged him that they might touch even the fringe of his cloak; and all who touched it were healed.

Today’s gospel begins at a fast pace, busy almost to the point of chaos. Notice where you are as you hear this. How are you present today?

Gennesaret is the ‘other’ side of the lake, the people there a blend of Jews and Gentiles, a place where there are fewer social and cultural barriers. It is seemingly a place where people are quick to respond and unafraid to ask for what they need. Consider where you are in this scene: amongst the crowd, watching from the sidelines, or needing to be carried.

The people aren’t waiting for a discourse. They know Jesus; they recognise his message by his very presence. They want to be touched, to be held, yet know that even the fringe of his cloak is enough. What does their confidence mean to you? Are you able to ask for what you want from Jesus today — not what you think you should want, but what you actually desire?

Also notice that Jesus does not ration his attention. He allows himself to be interrupted. He is willing to be led to where there is need. Consider what your response might be if today you are invited to “reach out” — in prayer, in vulnerability, in compassion towards someone else.

As you listen to the passage again, notice how Mark places Jesus in the midst of the need. Consider what this means to you.

Mark 6:53-56

When they had crossed over, they came to land at Gennesaret and moored the boat. When they got out of the boat, people at once recognized him, and rushed about that whole region and began to bring the sick on mats to wherever they heard he was. And wherever he went, into villages or cities or farms, they laid the sick in the market-places, and begged him that they might touch even the fringe of his cloak; and all who touched it were healed.

In this time of prayer, and as you move through the day, remember that Jesus is present, close enough to touch. What might you wish to place into his care?

Glory be to the Father and to the Son and to the Holy Spirit.

As it was in the beginning, is now and ever shall be

World without end

Amen

Am I a stranger among my own?

Is this a place where I can be known?

What do I have to hide just to belong?

Is this my table? Am I alone?

I see you stranger among your own

No reputation, without a home

Touching the river, throwing no stones

Come to my table, you're not alone

This table is yours, this table is mine

Christ breaks the bread and pours the wine

So we lift the cup and we join the feast

God's holy mystery

Jesus He cried out while on the tree

“O God forgive them, they cannot see”

His love forsaken, his mercy meek

Yet at this table, we know Christ's peace

Mary in mourning went to the tomb

Her heart was broken; the stone was too

She saw an angel claimed Jesus raised

The body's gone now, don't be afraid

This table is yours, this table is mine

Christ breaks the bread and pours the wine

So we lift the cup and we join the feast

God's holy mystery

Hallelujah! Hallelujah!

With open hands and broken hearts

Lord, we lift our prayers and we join the feast

God's holy mystery

God's holy mystery

Today’s reading is from the Prophet Isaiah.

Isaiah 58:7-10

Is it not to share your bread with the hungry,

and bring the homeless poor into your house;

when you see the naked, to cover them,

and not to hide yourself from your own kin?

Then your light shall break forth like the dawn,

and your healing shall spring up quickly;

your vindicator shall go before you,

the glory of the Lord shall be your rearguard.

Then you shall call, and the Lord will answer;

you shall cry for help, and he will say, Here I am.

If you remove the yoke from among you,

the pointing of the finger, the speaking of evil,

if you offer your food to the hungry

and satisfy the needs of the afflicted,

then your light shall rise in the darkness

and your gloom be like the noonday.

In today’s reading, the prophet Isaiah challenges those who practise the religious act of fasting to also demonstrate acts of kindness and compassion by meeting the needs of others.

Let this list of good acts challenge you now, as you open your heart to Isaiah’s suggestions:

Share your bread with the hungry.

Bring the homeless poor into your house.

When you see the naked, cover them

Don’t hide yourself from your own kin

Which of these instructions do you find the most challenging? Speak with the Lord about your service to him and to those around you, asking him to show you his way and will for loving others around you.

Isaiah writes

‘Then your light shall break forth like the dawn,

    and your healing shall spring up quickly;’

As you listen to the reading again, notice how the quality of our relationship with God and his nearness to us can reflect and empower our outward love towards others.

Isaiah 58:7-10

Is it not to share your bread with the hungry,

and bring the homeless poor into your house;

when you see the naked, to cover them,

and not to hide yourself from your own kin?

Then your light shall break forth like the dawn,

and your healing shall spring up quickly;

your vindicator shall go before you,

the glory of the Lord shall be your rearguard.

Then you shall call, and the Lord will answer;

you shall cry for help, and he will say, Here I am.

If you remove the yoke from among you,

the pointing of the finger, the speaking of evil,

if you offer your food to the hungry

and satisfy the needs of the afflicted,

then your light shall rise in the darkness

and your gloom be like the noonday.

‘Then your light shall rise in the darkness

    and your gloom be like the noonday.’

Where in the darkness of our world can you enable light to rise? End your time of prayer by offering the light within you to the Lord as a gift to others.

Glory be to the Father and to the Son and to the Holy Spirit.

As it was in the beginning, is now and ever shall be

World without end

Amen

In our prayer times this week, we have been spending time with Jesus and watching his ministry, also reflecting on our own work for the Lord.

A line from each scripture will be read, followed by a pause for reflection. As you begin your time of prayer, ask the Holy Spirit to let these words speak afresh to you today.

Simeon took him in his arms and praised God, saying,

‘Master, now you are dismissing your servant in peace,

 according to your word; for my eyes have seen your salvation.

She had heard about Jesus and came up behind him in the crowd and touched his cloak, for she said, ‘If I but touch his clothes, I will be made well.’ 

Then Jesus said to them, ‘Prophets are not without honour, except in their hometown and among their own kin, and in their own house.’ 

He called the twelve and began to send them out two by two and gave them authority over the unclean spirits.  He ordered them to take nothing for their journey except a staff; no bread, no bag, no money in their belts; but to wear sandals and not to put on two tunics. 

 Immediately the king sent a soldier of the guard with orders to bring John’s head. He went and beheaded him in the prison... When his disciples heard about it, they came and took his body and laid it in a tomb.

What most struck you as you heard these readings today?

As you recall your times of prayer during the past week, was there a time when you felt particularly close to the Lord? What was happening for you? Give thanks for this time.

Was there a time when did you felt distant from the Lord? What was the cause of this distance? Offer this moment to the Lord.

Now, in the Lord’s presence, consider the week ahead...

Offer your days with all your commitments, encounters and prayer spaces to him, inviting him to walk closely with you each day.

Glory be to the Father and to the Son and to the Holy Spirit.

As it was in the beginning, is now and ever shall be

World without end

Amen

'The Lord is my light, my hope, my salvation. In him I trust.' As you hear this piece by Margaret Rizza, can you put all distractions aside for a moment, and place all your trust in God, your light, your hope, your salvation?

Today’s reading is from the Gospel of Mark.

Mark 6:14-29

King Herod heard of it, for Jesus’ name had become known. Some were saying, ‘John the baptizer has been raised from the dead; and for this reason these powers are at work in him.’ But others said, ‘It is Elijah.’ And others said, ‘It is a prophet, like one of the prophets of old.’ But when Herod heard of it, he said, ‘John, whom I beheaded, has been raised.’

For Herod himself had sent men who arrested John, bound him, and put him in prison on account of Herodias, his brother Philip’s wife, because Herod had married her. For John had been telling Herod, ‘It is not lawful for you to have your brother’s wife.’ And Herodias had a grudge against him, and wanted to kill him. But she could not, for Herod feared John, knowing that he was a righteous and holy man, and he protected him. When he heard him, he was greatly perplexed; and yet he liked to listen to him. But an opportunity came when Herod on his birthday gave a banquet for his courtiers and officers and for the leaders of Galilee. When his daughter Herodias came in and danced, she pleased Herod and his guests; and the king said to the girl, ‘Ask me for whatever you wish, and I will give it.’ And he solemnly swore to her, ‘Whatever you ask me, I will give you, even half of my kingdom.’ She went out and said to her mother, ‘What should I ask for?’ She replied, ‘The head of John the baptizer.’ Immediately she rushed back to the king and requested, ‘I want you to give me at once the head of John the Baptist on a platter.’ The king was deeply grieved; yet out of regard for his oaths and for the guests, he did not want to refuse her. Immediately the king sent a soldier of the guard with orders to bring John’s head. He went and beheaded him in the prison, brought his head on a platter, and gave it to the girl. Then the girl gave it to her mother. When his disciples heard about it, they came and took his body, and laid it in a tomb.

During Advent we heard a number of readings about John the Baptist. We read in John’s Gospel, ‘There was a man sent from God, whose name was John.  He came as a witness to testify to the light, so that all might believe through him.‘ As we reflect on this passage today, first take a moment to remember and appreciate the life and ministry of John the Baptist; for the times when you have encountered this light.

In today’s reading, the Kingdom of God has arrived as we hear that Jesus’ name has become known. Herod, who has heard about Jesus, wonders who this man is, thinking that perhaps John the Baptist has been raised from the dead.

Try imagining these two scenarios: Jesus preaching and healing, bringing life...and his cousin John, who prepared the way for Jesus, locked up in Herod’s prison. The ministry of Jesus beginning, and John’s life about to end.

As you listen to the reading again, notice how it makes you feel. Perhaps the gruesome details of John’s death are difficult to bear, so notice your feelings and acknowledge them before the Lord.

But an opportunity came when Herod on his birthday gave a banquet for his courtiers and officers and for the leaders of Galilee. When his daughter Herodias came in and danced, she pleased Herod and his guests; and the king said to the girl, ‘Ask me for whatever you wish, and I will give it.’ And he solemnly swore to her, ‘Whatever you ask me, I will give you, even half of my kingdom.’ She went out and said to her mother, ‘What should I ask for?’ She replied, ‘The head of John the baptizer.’ Immediately she rushed back to the king and requested, ‘I want you to give me at once the head of John the Baptist on a platter.’ The king was deeply grieved; yet out of regard for his oaths and for the guests, he did not want to refuse her. Immediately the king sent a soldier of the guard with orders to bring John’s head. He went and beheaded him in the prison, brought his head on a platter, and gave it to the girl. Then the girl gave it to her mother. When his disciples heard about it, they came and took his body, and laid it in a tomb.

‘When the disciples heard about John’s death, they came and took his body and laid it in a tomb.’ Take a moment to imagine mourning the death of John with the disciples... and give thanks for his ministry.

Glory be to the Father and to the Son and to the Holy Spirit.

As it was in the beginning, is now and ever shall be

World without end

Amen

The community of Taizé sing Fiez-vous en lui: “Trust in Him and do not fear. The peace of God will protect your hearts. Alleluia.”

Fiez-vous en Lui, ne craignez pas.

La paix de Dieu gardera vos coeurs.

Fiez-vous en Lui. Alleluia. Alleluia.

Today’s reading is from the Gospel of Mark.

Mark 6:7-13

[Jesus] called the twelve and began to send them out two by two, and gave them authority over the unclean spirits. He ordered them to take nothing for their journey except a staff; no bread, no bag, no money in their belts; but to wear sandals and not to put on two tunics. He said to them, ‘Wherever you enter a house, stay there until you leave the place. If any place will not welcome you and they refuse to hear you, as you leave, shake off the dust that is on your feet as a testimony against them.’ So they went out and proclaimed that all should repent. They cast out many demons, and anointed with oil many who were sick and cured them.

For today’s prayer, imagine that you are with the disciples of Jesus as they gather for his instructions as he sends them to minister, two by two. Maybe try adding some of your friends there as disciples too...

As Jesus prepares you for this ministry, note whom you most like to travel with for this task? Why with this person?

Now, as you and your friend are paired together, listen to Jesus’s instructions:

You are to take nothing except a staff...no bread...no bag...no money...just one tunic...

How do you feel about this? Scared maybe? Ill equipped? Or perhaps liberated and light.

‘So, they went out and proclaimed that all should repent.’ As you listen to the reading again, imagine the two of you setting off.

Mark 6:7-13

[Jesus] called the twelve and began to send them out two by two, and gave them authority over the unclean spirits. He ordered them to take nothing for their journey except a staff; no bread, no bag, no money in their belts; but to wear sandals and not to put on two tunics. He said to them, ‘Wherever you enter a house, stay there until you leave the place. If any place will not welcome you and they refuse to hear you, as you leave, shake off the dust that is on your feet as a testimony against them.’ So they went out and proclaimed that all should repent. They cast out many demons, and anointed with oil many who were sick and cured them.

Imagine that you and your friend are returning to Jesus. How does he welcome you back? As we approach the end of our prayer, spend time giving thanks for the times of your ministry for the Lord and give special thanks for those who have ministered to you.

Glory be to the Father and to the Son and to the Holy Spirit.

As it was in the beginning, is now and ever shall be

World without end

Amen

Nick Chambers sings, ‘I Just Want To See’. Let this song carry you into prayer today... maybe you can make these lyrics your own words to Jesus...

The worry of being a burden

Eclipses this quiet belief

But I’ll throw off the cloak from my shoulders

when you call me up onto my feet

And quiet the voices that keep me

From crying out my need

Son of David,

have mercy on me

I just want to see

I just want to see

Lost on the path where you find me

This labyrinth under my feet

I walk forward but always returning

Back through some twisting of grief

Still my heart is burning within me

Just to hear you speak

Wandering stranger,

will you stay with me?

I just want to see

I just want to see

Open my eyes

Open my eyes

I just want to see

I just want to see

Today’s reading is from the Gospel of Mark.

Mark 6:1-6

[Jesus] left that place and came to his home town, and his disciples followed him. On the sabbath he began to teach in the synagogue, and many who heard him were astounded. They said, ‘Where did this man get all this? What is this wisdom that has been given to him? What deeds of power are being done by his hands! Is not this the carpenter, the son of Mary and brother of James and Joses and Judas and Simon, and are not his sisters here with us?’ And they took offence at him. Then Jesus said to them, ‘Prophets are not without honour, except in their home town, and among their own kin, and in their own house.’ And he could do no deed of power there, except that he laid his hands on a few sick people and cured them. And he was amazed at their unbelief. Then he went about among the villages teaching.

Today we join Jesus as he returns with his disciples to his hometown. As he teaches in the synagogue, we might imagine the people who surround him and the voices and muttering in the background as they are astounded by him.

Consider their questions for a moment: What is this wisdom that has been given to him? What deeds of power are being done by his hands? What would you like to tell the neighbours of Nazareth?

‘They took offence at him.’ You might recall a time when others have taken offence or scoffed at your faith, so, as you listen to the reading again, try to imagine what it was like for the Lord being rejected by the people of his hometown, friends, neighbours, religious leaders perhaps.

Jesus was amazed at their unbelief. As you listen again, take a moment to reflect on any ways in which you have encountered rejection.

Mark 6:1-6

[Jesus] left that place and came to his home town, and his disciples followed him. On the sabbath he began to teach in the synagogue, and many who heard him were astounded. They said, ‘Where did this man get all this? What is this wisdom that has been given to him? What deeds of power are being done by his hands! Is not this the carpenter, the son of Mary and brother of James and Joses and Judas and Simon, and are not his sisters here with us?’ And they took offence at him. Then Jesus said to them, ‘Prophets are not without honour, except in their home town, and among their own kin, and in their own house.’ And he could do no deed of power there, except that he laid his hands on a few sick people and cured them. And he was amazed at their unbelief. Then he went about among the villages teaching.

Jesus went among the villages teaching. End today’s prayer in gratitude for all who listen to the words of Jesus and choose to follow him. Perhaps include yourself as a faithful disciple, one who belongs to the Lord.

Glory be to the Father and to the Son and to the Holy Spirit.

As it was in the beginning, is now and ever shall be

World without end

Amen