by: Rev. Anna Golladay
As we stand on the cusp of this new year, I find myself reflecting deeply on the word that will guide me in 2025: possibility. For me, this word is both a prayer and a call to action, a challenge and an invitation. As a pastor, possibility is at the heart of the Gospel message: a call to imagine a world not only as it is, but as it could be—rooted in justice, love, and grace.
In 2025, I am reminded that possibility is the promise that God offers to us continually, even in the face of uncertainty, division, and pain. We see evidence of it in the life of Jesus, who, against all odds, opened up new worlds of healing, compassion, and reconciliation. When the world says “impossible,” Jesus stands in the midst of the impossible and whispers, “With God, all things are possible.”
We, too, are invited to embody this radical hope. Our faith is not simply a solace for the weary; it is an active, dynamic force that propels us to create a world where possibility is not just a theological idea, but a tangible reality. We are called to advocate for a society that values the dignity of every person, that confronts systems of injustice, and that works tirelessly for peace and reconciliation. This year, let us live with eyes wide open to the possibilities around us—possibilities for new relationships, for systemic change, and for deeper, more meaningful connections with our neighbors.
For me, this concept of possibility is taking on new forms as I run for public office in my city of Chattanooga, TN. In what feels like the next phase of my ministry, I’m driven by the mantra: if abundance is attainable for some, it must be possible for all. I wear the bracelet in this photo to remind me of that praxis daily. Possibility is lifeblood for many of us. It is the imagination of the future, of what might be, that keeps hope alive in us.
As we engage in the public life of our communities, the church’s role is clear: we are to be the moral compass, urging society toward a future of justice, equity, and compassion. Whether we are working for economic reform, racial justice, environmental stewardship, or global peace, we must approach each challenge with the understanding that every barrier we encounter can be overcome, every division can be bridged, and every person has inherent worth and possibility within them.
What might possibility look like for you? For your congregation? Is this year one of big decisions, or are you simply looking to maintain the goodness of life in your community? Is the future one that feels daunting? Are you excited about new projects that arrive at completion in 2025? So much is possible, is it not?
In 2025, let us walk together with faith and hope, with our hearts open to the God who calls us to imagine and create a better world. Let us commit ourselves to being agents of transformation, no matter how daunting the task may seem. The possibilities before us are as vast as the love of God, and it is our calling to bring them to life.
