“For I know the plans I have for you,” declares the Lord, “plans to prosper you and not to harm you, plans to give you hope and a future.” (Jeremiah 29:11)
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In 2024, the United Nations introduced a Pact for the Future—a vision for a more just, sustainable, and peaceful world. It’s a reminder that what we do today shapes the lives of those who come after us. It reminds me of the words of Henry David Thoreau: “The future is not something to be predicted, but a canvas to be painted with the colors of our present actions.” The UN declaration is encouraging, but it left me wondering—what would my own Pact for the Future look like? And what about yours?
Leadership isn’t just about feeling good about the future. It’s about making intentional choices that shape the world we dream of—choices grounded in faith, love, and justice. Theologian Reinhold Niebuhr reminds us, “Nothing we do, however virtuous, can be accomplished alone. Therefore, we are saved by love.” If we wish to be good ancestors, we owe it to ourselves and future generations to act in loving ways towards one another and the planet.
This is the vision I want to carry forward—a vision not just of personal success but of collective thriving driven by love. So here’s my Pact for the Future, a set of commitments I want to make to those who will come after us:
I commit to protecting, preserving, and partnering with the planet. I hope to leave the earth more beautiful, diverse, and sustainable than it is today.
I commit to advocating for peace and equality, recognizing that all people are equally loved and valued children of God. Everyone belongs.
I commit to speaking up for democracy, justice, and the rule of law. Power must serve the whole of the people, not just a privileged few.
I commit to embracing and celebrating diversity. Wisdom, compassion, and kindness emerge when we honor the voices, needs and stories of all living beings on the earth.
I commit to caring for the poor and excluded. I will use my resources and privilege to bring access, comfort and dignity to those who are left out and left behind.
But this isn’t just my list—it’s an invitation. What would your Pact for the Future say? What are the promises you are willing to make—not just for yourself, but for your grandchildren, your community, and those you may never meet?
The world we long for won’t build itself. It begins with ordinary people, in ordinary moments, making extraordinary commitments to love, protect, and serve. It starts with courage—courage to believe that hope is more than a wish; it’s a practice. And it’s a practice that builds a more just and generous world for all.
We are in this together,
Cameron
Reflection Questions
What hopes and commitments do you want to make for the future?
How can you live out your values more intentionally in the year ahead?
A Prayer for the Day
A Prayer for the Future
God of Hope,
You call us to dream boldly,
To trust that You are making all things new.
Give us courage to care for the earth,
Strength to work for justice and peace,
And hearts wide enough to embrace those on the margins.
May we live with integrity,
Act with compassion,
And leave behind a legacy of love.
Teach us to trust not just in what we can do,
But in what You are already doing—
Restoring, renewing, and healing this world.
Amen.
Spiritual Practice
Writing Your Pact
Take time this week to write your own Pact for the Future.
Begin by imagining the world you want to leave behind—not just for your children, but for generations to come. What does it look like? What values shape it?
Next, write down 3–5 commitments that reflect the future you hope to create. Be specific. Maybe it’s protecting the environment by reducing waste or working to make your community more inclusive. Maybe it’s volunteering for causes that matter to you or advocating for laws that promote justice and equality.
Once you’ve written your pact, keep it somewhere visible—as a reminder that hope is not just a feeling but an active commitment to building something better. Let this practice ground you in faith, courage, and purpose as you step into the days ahead.
And remember, you don’t carry this hope alone. God walks with us, guiding our steps, shaping our efforts, and making a way where there seems to be none.
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.