2023 Word of the Year
One of my all-time favorite podcasts to listen to is Abiding Together. Every year, Sister Miriam James Heidland, Heather, and Michelle come together to discuss their “word of the year.” This year, I wanted to join in on the fun. Word of the Year is very similar to a New Year’s Resolution. Think of it as a “spirit led” resolution. Ask the Lord for his invitation on what He wants for you to focus on this year.
After a week of thoughtful prayer and meditation, I found myself gravitating to the word “formed.” The Holy Spirit spoke into my heart that this year is a year of transformation. Working for the University of Michigan for the last 1.5 years has been a blessing. But all good things must come to an end. My contract ends this year. In August, I will be unemployed! Now, you’re probably thinking, “Goodness! Aren’t you scared?” And my answer to that is, “Of course! Who wouldn’t be?”
I am a classic overthinker. I obsessively plan the next steps of my life because I hate the unknowns and uncertainties. So, this year will be an especially challenging one for me since I am faced with a plethora of different pathways. I applied to graduate school, fellowships, and jobs. It’s just a matter of time before I have to discern which path to take. Although it’s a work in progress, I have gotten increasingly better at listening to the Holy Spirit and letting Him guide me. It’s God’s plan, not mine. And I have to remind myself that all of the time.
This year, I am inviting the Lord to form me into the woman that I am meant to be. No plans. Just Jesus. This invitation will help me grow a deeper trust in the Lord and his plans for me. I will have to exercise patience, something that I am not all too good at. Needless to say, I am excited to see how the Lord shapes my heart. In ministry. In vocation. In love. I plan to revisit this word at the end of the year to see how God has stretched me. For now, we wait.
What is your word of the year?
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Emily
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