As I think back to this time last year, it feels so long ago! Several times over the past few months, someone has mentioned an event from 2024, and I’ve thought, “That happened last year?!?” It feels like ages ago. Another sign that the year felt long is how much I’ve forgotten—including my tradition of choosing a word for the year and writing this article. Thankfully, a few weeks ago a friend asked me about it, not only reminding me to choose a word but causing me to wonder about the one I picked last year—which I had also, unfortunately, forgotten.
Looking back through my newsletters, I found it. My word for 2024 was “communion.” I chose that word out of a desire to deepen my connection with God through more time in His Word and prayer. Though I had forgotten the word itself, reflection on the year illuminated the many ways God did not forget and highlighted His faithfulness to meet with me. Amidst heavy things in the world, our church, and especially personally with the loss of my dad—I had the joy of communion with Christ. He was my faithful comforter, counselor, and strength. It was in reflecting on His faithfulness, despite my forgetfulness, that I was drawn to the word I hope will characterize me in 2025: Faithful.
Throughout the Bible, history, and my own personal life, God has been steadfast in his faithfulness to His promises and to His people, despite our persistent and often flagrant unfaithfulness. This year, I want to respond to His faithfulness by growing in my own. I long to be a more faithful follower and servant of Christ—to meet with Him daily, to listen more attentively, to obey more fully, and to live in a way that reflects His beauty and points others to Him. I want to be faithful with my time, my money, my work, and my relationships. I want to be faithful in the roles and responsibilities He has given me in the season and place He has put me. May I learn from His example and grow in faithfulness—resting in the truth that, "The one who calls me is faithful, and He will surely do it" (1 Thessalonians 5:24).
As I embark on this journey of faithfulness (and hopefully remember my commitment to it!), I would love to hear from you! If you were to choose a word to characterize your 2024, what would it be? And what word are you hoping will define this year for you? It is always a joy to hear your reflections.
By Katie Miller
For more blog posts by Katie Miller, click HERE
