A New Year in Uncertain Times
A Meditation by Rev. Cameron Trimble
“Behold, I am making all things new.” (Revelation 21:5)
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A new year always feels like an open door—a threshold between what has been and what could be. We stand on the threshold of 2025 with a mixture of hope and hesitation. The past year has left its marks—joys and sorrows, triumphs and disappointments. My friend and futurist colleague, Loes Damhof, shared this “Year Compass” workbook to help us reflect on the past and plan for the future. I encourage you to spend some time with it.
And now we look ahead, wondering what the future will hold.
January 1st is more than just a date on the calendar. It’s an invitation to begin again—to set down the weight of the past and step forward with fresh hope. But this year, I confess, it doesn’t feel like a fresh start. Instead, for some of us, it feels heavy—with anxiety about what lies ahead.
We are stepping into a time of instability, fearing what the next administration might bring. We are worried for our undocumented friends and neighbors, anxious about climate change, and overwhelmed by the chaos we know will come. Many of us are grieving the erosion of democracy and the rise of power that feels more like oligarchy.
Let’s name it: these fears are real. The challenges in front of us are not imagined. And yet, the beginning of a new year reminds us that time keeps moving—and so must we. We are not powerless, and this is not the end of the story.
The poet Rainer Maria Rilke wrote, “And now we welcome the new year, full of things that have never been.” What if we approached this year not with fear of the unknown but with curiosity and wonder? What if we trusted that the Divine is already at work, weaving beauty even in the uncertainties? What if we trusted that transformation doesn’t happen all at once but step by step, day by day?
This transformation does not wait for perfect conditions. It begins in the messiness of the present moment. It begins with people like us—worried, inspired and sometimes unsure—but willing to take one step forward. It begins when we refuse to let fear have the final word and instead choose courage, compassion, and kindness.
As we cross this threshold, let us commit ourselves not to perfection but to presence. May we enter this year with open hands and open hearts, ready to receive what God is offering and to give what love demands. Let us carry forward the lessons we’ve learned, the courage we’ve gained, and the faith that sustains us—knowing that every sunrise is a reminder that new beginnings are always possible.
We are in this together,
Cameron
Reflection Questions
What hopes and intentions are you carrying into this new year?
What do you need to let go of from the past year in order to step fully into the new one?
A Prayer for the Day
A Prayer for the New Year
God of New Beginnings,
We stand at the threshold of a new year,
Grateful for the gift of time and the hope of renewal.
We bring to You our fears and dreams, our regrets and aspirations.
Meet us here, in this in-between space,
And remind us that You are already making all things new.
Teach us to walk in faith,
To trust in the unfolding of Your grace,
And to carry Your light into this new year.
Amen.
Spiritual Practice
Naming Your Intentions
Spend some time with the Year Compass.
But if that feels overwhelming, here is another idea…
Start by lighting a candle and sitting in quiet reflection. Write down three words that capture your intentions for the year ahead—words like courage, compassion, or trust. Let these words become a touchstone for you, reminding you of how you want to move through the year.
Next, write down something you want to let go of—an old fear, a regret, or a burden you no longer need to carry. Offer it in prayer, asking God to help you release it and make space for something new.
Finally, spend a moment in gratitude. Name one thing from the past year that you’re thankful for, even if it was hard-won. Let that gratitude ground you as you step forward, knowing that the God who has carried you this far will continue to guide you into what comes next.
May this year be one of growth, renewal, and abundant grace. Happy New Year!
Upcoming Events That Might Be of Interest…
January 9, 2025, 12pm ET - What Does the TikTok Ban Mean for Churches, Faith Leaders, and Digital Ministry? Register here.
January 12, 2025, 3-4:30pm ET - Join me for a FREE conversation on “Progressive Islam – Universal Values vs. the Politics of Human Rights – What’s the Difference Between a Progressive Muslim and Other Muslims?” with Ani Zonneveld. Register here.
February 6, 7-8pm ET - Join my conversation “Mindful Healing: Tools For Inner Balance and Wellbeing” with Rev. Dr. Isa Gucciardi. Register here.
February 11, 2025 - Diana Butler Bass and I will be geeking out together in an online event about the state of the world (post-inauguration). We are still putting the details together. For now, mark your calendars.
July 20-25, 2025 - The Art of Wilding: A 5-Day Expedition in Wyoming for Women Leaders. Click here to learn more.
August 11, 2025, 2pm ET - Dr. Andrew Root and I will be hosting a 6 part series on Spirituality in the Secular Age based on his research. The dates are August 11, 18, September 8, 15, and October 6, 13. Mark your calendars! More on this soon.
October 15-18, 2025 - Converging 2025: Sing Truth Conference (all musicians invited!) at Northwest Christian Church in Columbus, OH. Mark your calendars for now. More info is coming.
Recently, I drafted a Strategic Framework for Congregations as we move into the coming years of increased authoritarianism around the world. If interested, you can download it here.
A good message to start the New Year.