New Year – New Word
Today is January 2nd. Perhaps like you, I’ve bid farewell to 2024 and am in the process of welcoming 2025.
If you know me well or if you have read my blogs, you realize I do not make New Year resolutions. Instead, for approximately 20 years, I have prayerfully chosen a word or phrase to help guide me through the upcoming year.
Many behavior experts suggest this practice sets a tone for creative curiosity which nudges the brain in a positive direction and is more likely to lead to lasting change. In contrast, for many people, resolutions lead to resistance and lack of follow through.
In 2024, my word was DISCOVER, and it came to me unusually early, unquestionably, and unexpectedly in September.
Toward the end of October 2024, I thought I had landed on the phrase that would guide me through 2025. In mid-December, however, a more encompassing phrase emerged. During the past couple days, as I have been working through a process called The Great Annual Examen – An Exercise to Look Back, Look Within, and Look Forward by Stephen Smith, yet a different word developed. So, like what often happens—at least in my experience—spiritual formation that leads to transformation is a fluid process. I am not yet ready to announce my word for 2025.
The past couple years, several Listening on the Journey … readers have shared their word for the year. Last year, by far the most common word was TRUST. I know for many who believed the Spirit led them to that word, your trust was challenged in 2024 but also grew in remarkable ways. I would feel honored if you once again let us know what word you have been given to guide you through this new year.
As we step into the unknowns of 2025, I am so grateful we serve a God whose very character is LOVE and who has promised to NEVER abandon us. I can cling to hope which springs from that knowledge.
Blessings on your journey,
