People often begin the new year with hopes, goals, and resolutions (at least for a few weeks). For some, 2025 holds both opportunity and promise; for others, it may represent uncertainty and a fair amount of trepidation.
At church this week, Auburn First UMC attendees received a small card with a “Star Word” to guide their spiritual reflection in 2025. The practice of giving out a word or symbolic gift on Epiphany has become increasingly popular in some Protestant churches. My word? Choice.
The word made me pause, reminding me of a related theological principle I hold. You’ve probably heard the phrase, “With great power comes great responsibility.” Originally attributed to Voltaire, I first encountered it in the story of Spider-Man but made the connection to Jesus’ practical teachings (e.g., Luke 12:48) when I was in seminary.
My Star Word caused me to wonder: How often do I acknowledge the power and responsibility of choice in my daily life? When I’m stressed, overwhelmed, or simply uninspired, it’s easy to imagine that I am powerless; a cog in the wheel, a mid-level manager, a victim of powers beyond me. And while it is true that I do not control the universe, I suspect I give up my agency in things far too easily.
And I also wondered: How often do I assume others have the same level of privilege to make similar choices about things both important and mundane? In a UM News Commentary this week, the Rev. Dr. Rebekah Miles touched on this as she explained why she was coming out as bisexual:
“Why come out now? My kids remind me that people with privilege and security (like tenured full professors) should use their privilege well. “Many people can’t be out now because they fear violence and discrimination,” my kids tell me. “This is a hard time to be gay.”
As disciples of Christ, we are called to make choices rooted in love, justice, and grace. The freedom we have in Christ is only experienced when we embrace this calling and the agency and responsibility it brings. As Miles expresses, choosing to live into our freedom can make space for others to do the same, a gift that may be of great value in the years ahead.
So, as a generous person, I’d love to share my “Star Card” with you, especially if you didn’t get one of your own. Knowing that this may be a challenging year for many, let us consider how we can choose kindness when it’s easier to remain indifferent, action when apathy feels tempting, and faith when our experiences cause us to doubt.
May we be emboldened to choose the freedom we have in Christ so that we can be a gift to others, especially for those who cannot take for granted choice in the new year.
