Transformed by joy and hope

“We are being pulled out of ourselves into the mystery of the love of God,” observes Bishop Graham in his message to leaders, members and friends of the Metro D.C. Synod this season. “As followers of Jesus we can serve as examples of what it means to try to think clearly. We can share, and do our jobs, and refuse to follow along when we’re invited to bully people who are different than we are. We can speak up for the suffering with courage, and treat with respect anyone who disagrees with us.” Special thanks to Allen Butte, member of Lord of Life Lutheran Church in Virginia, for the lovely photo of candle-lighting accompanying the synod’s Christmas greetings this year! More from Bishop Graham’s 2015 message, “Crucial Calm and Crisis,” can be found in a “Forum” blog post.