FRIDAY, JANUARY 1
Numbers 6:22-27; Psalm 67; Galatians 4:4-7; Luke 2:16-21
Today is the World Day of Peace, a celebration begun by Saint Paul VI in 1967. Not only this, but it is also the last day in the Christmas Octave and the Feast of the Solemnity of Mary. Three commemorations which, taken with today's Gospel, mutually enrich our call to build a Kingdom of Peace.
After encountering the infant Jesus, the shepherds "make known the message that had been told them." Meanwhile, Mary reflects “in her heart." One goes outward; one goes inward. I love the juxtaposition here: to embrace a perspective of peace, we must simultaneously go out into the world and into our own hearts. We hold in tension peace as an encounter with the Divine and our call to share peace with others.
As we decide how we will approach a new year, some are making drastic changes. Others continue the same. There will be goals and resolutions, pivots and priority-shifts. Yet, as Pope Leo XIV says, "Peace exists; it wants to dwell within us."4 We must allow for the peace that dwells within to compel us out into the world, to the suffering and the marginalized, that they, too, might find God's ever-present peace.
Karla Keppel, MA/MA
Associate Director, Mission Services
Catholic Health Association
Pause
How will you let the peace that dwells within radiate out to a world in need?
Pray
God of the Universe, Creator of Light and Dark: You have formed us together as one body to proclaim Your peace. Draw us beyond our own narrowness to recognize Christ within ourselves and one another. Help us to choose unity – humility over pride and patience over anger. Make in us Your dwelling place, O God, that we may be worthy builders of Your Kingdom and true instruments of Your grace. Amen.
ENDNOTE
- Pope Leo XIV, "Message for the 59th World Day of Peace 2026."