Daily Devotion for 23 February 2026 (Lent 1, Monday)

• Psalm 2
• Psalm 77
• Psalm 130
• Genesis 6:1—7:5
• Mark 3:1–19
• Formula of Concord: Solid Declaration I:5–15

Commemoration

Today we commemorate Polycarp of Smyrna, Pastor and Martyr. A disciple of John, Polycarp was bishop of Smyrna for many years before he was arrested, tried, and executed for his faith in approximately AD 155. The Martyrdom of Polycarp, an eyewitness narrative, continues to encourage believers, particularly in times of persecution, even to this day.