Leave-taking of the Feast of the Nativity of Christ, Christmas. Our Venerable Mother Melania the Roman (439).
1 Peter 3:10-22. Mark 12:18-27.
Read 1 Peter 3:10-22
If we want to see good days, we must keep our tongues from evil, turn from sin, and pursue peace. These virtues aren’t lofty ideals; they’re practices we can integrate into the small, everyday moments of our lives.
Virtue isn’t gained overnight. It grows like a seed, slowly and steadily, with consistent care and effort. There’s a popular saying: “I prayed for patience, and God gave me opportunities to be patient.” Growth comes when we embrace those moments to practice the very virtues we desire.
This year, instead of setting overwhelming resolutions, why not try something simple? For example, to practice patience, deliberately choose the longest line at the grocery store. Instead of tapping your foot or scrolling your phone, use the time to pray or reflect on God’s blessings. If you’d like to build discipline, start by making your bed every morning. It’s a small act, but it’s a deliberate step toward greater self-control.
1 Peter also calls us to “seek peace and pursue it.” This can mean choosing kindness in conversations, holding back that sharp word, or taking a deep breath before responding in frustration. These simple acts may seem insignificant, but they shape us into the kind of people God calls us to be.
God doesn’t ask for dramatic gestures. He asks for faithfulness in the small things. The eyes of the Lord are upon the righteous, Peter reminds us, and His ears are open to our prayers. Each small step we take in practicing virtue is seen and blessed by Him.
So this New Year’s Eve, consider one simple resolution. Not something grand, but one small, daily practice to grow in virtue. Let’s begin this new year with hearts ready to seek peace and to cultivate goodness, trusting that in these small acts, God is transforming us.