To Friends Who Share the Journey,
We are both horrified and saddened by the violence and the blatant challenge to our democracy that we have seen at the Capitol today, this day that Christians celebrate as Epiphany. The story of Jesus’ birth and the story of Epiphany reminds us that for generations, too many to count, there have always been people who are willing to destroy in order to try and hold on to what they believe to be their birthright. We must stand for another vision. As Christians, we follow the Prince of Peace who came not with a sword but with a message of justice and human and spiritual transformation.
 
Every chance Jesus had he reminded people to choose the way of God over the way of Empire. As the Spirit of the Lord was upon Jesus, let that Spirit be upon us so that we proclaim good news to the poor, recovery of sight to the blind and that we set the oppressed free. Scripture on this day of Epiphany from Matthew 2: 10-12 tells us, “When they saw that the star had stopped, they were overwhelmed with joy. On entering the house, they saw the child with Mary his mother; and they knelt down and paid him homage. Then, opening their treasure chests, they offered him gifts of gold, frankincense, and myrrh. And having been warned in a dream not to return to Herod, they left for their own country by another road.” Let us leave this day by another road with renewed commitment to follow the Prince of Peace and the ways he taught us to live in the world. Let us choose the road that leads to justice, peace, and obedience to God’s call.
 
Yours in Faith,
 
Rev. Nancy Talbot
Acting Synod Leader
Synod Stated Clerk