Epiphany reminds us that God’s light shows up in unexpected places—and often leads us down unfamiliar roads.

The Magi follow a star not because they have certainty, but because they trust a promise. Their journey crosses borders, challenges power, and ultimately reveals that God’s presence is found not in domination, but in vulnerability and love.

As we lean into this week, we remember that faith is not about standing still. It is about movement. About listening again. About being willing to take another road when the old one no longer leads to life.

At Lutheran Engagement and Advocacy in Nevada, Epiphany calls us to keep following the light—especially when it leads us toward our neighbors most impacted by injustice. God’s grace is expansive. God’s hope crosses boundaries. And God is still revealing what justice and compassion look like in the public square.

May we have the courage to keep walking.
May we trust the light we’ve been given.
And may we lean into this week guided not by fear, but by faith.

The ELCA, in partnership with Augsburg Fortress, will observe the 2026 National Day of Racial Healing (NDORH) with a free evening program on Tuesday, Jan. 20, 6-8 p.m. Central time. 

Gather for “Just Us Narratives: A Night of Centering Multiracial Voices Across the ELCA” online and in person at Our Saviour’s Lutheran Church, Naperville, Ill.

As a sacred practice, story sharing highlights history, preserves language, engages culture, offers wisdom, sustains survival and teaches lessons that foster connection. Join us for a night of intentional storytelling, deep listening and reflection, featuring diverse voices that will draw us closer together. Learn more about the gathering and presenters here.

The NDORH is hosted by the W.K. Kellogg Foundation as part of its Truth, Racial Healing & Transformation efforts to raise awareness of the need for racial healing and encourage actions that build a more just and inclusive church and society.

How do our roles in the church shape our ethical commitments and activities today, when democratic institutions are under threat? At the 2026 Lutheran Ethicists Gathering, we will explore the church’s distinctive presence in society, including how the different parts of the church work together as one body for the well-being of all. Washington, DC, will provide both an apt setting and the opportunity as a community to learn from local advocacy partners about practical strategies for living out Lutheran ethics together after we return home. Registration for virtual particpation open until Jan. 7!

Find out more and register here.

Because faith in public life keeps evolving.

Here’s what’s in and what’s out in 2026.
But you know what is always in:

• Loving our neighbor
• Welcoming the stranger
• Defending the vulnerable
• Believing change is possible

2026—we’re ready.
Let’s keep building a more just Nevada, together.

Gracious and merciful God,

You are our refuge and strength, a very present help in times of trouble.

We come before you with hearts that are heavy yet hopeful, lifting up the people of Venezuela and the very complicated realities they face in these challenging times.

Bring calm where there is fear,

clarity where there is confusion,

and restraint where there is anger or despair.

Guide leaders, institutions and communities toward decisions that honor life, dignity and the common good.

We pray especially for our Lutheran church in Venezuela,

for pastors, deacons, lay leaders and all who serve faithfully amid uncertainty.

Sustain them with courage, wisdom and perseverance.

Let your church be a living sign of your grace

and a place of refuge, truth, accompaniment and hope for all who suffer.

God of justice,

where systems oppress and voices are silenced,

raise up pathways of accountability, reconciliation and peace.

Protect the most vulnerable, the poor, the displaced, the elderly and the children,

and strengthen all who labor for justice, healing and reconciliation.

God of hope,

when the future feels fragile and unclear,

remind your people that you are not absent.

By your Holy Spirit, kindle hope that does not disappoint

and peace that surpasses all understanding.

We entrust Venezuela, its people and your church into your loving hands,

trusting not in our own strength

but in your steadfast love made known in Jesus Christ,

who is our peace.

In his holy name we pray.

Amen.