Well, here we are—2025. If you’re anything like me, you’re still trying to remember to write the correct year on your checks (that conversation starter no longer works, because who writes a freakin’ check anymore?!). As we step into this new year, we’re greeted with the familiar mix of resolutions, new laws, and the unpredictable curveballs of leadership. Let’s face it: January isn’t for the faint of heart.
National Changes: A Constitutional Rebublic Doing Its Thing
On January 6, Congress will gather to finalize the Electoral College votes, officially wrapping up the 2024 presidential election. If there’s one thing this ritual teaches us, it’s that democracy is kind of like Julie baking—messy, chaotic, but worth it when the result comes out right.
Meanwhile, the nation prepares to honor former President Jimmy Carter with a state funeral on January 9. His dedication to service and humanitarian work reminds us that leadership is about more than titles; it’s about the legacy you leave behind. A good reminder for those of us who sometimes feel like we’re just trying to survive the next meeting.
What’s New in Colorado: Keep Your Hands Off Your Phone
Here in Colorado, we’ve got a fresh batch of laws to kick off the year. The big one? If you’re driving, your phone better not be in your hand. That’s right — hands-free devices are the law of the land, with fines waiting for those who can’t resist the urge to scroll at a red light.
Of course, there’s also the new minimum wage increase, now $14.81 per hour. Did the free market warrant this, or was it government playing Santa Claus? We know the answer. This is yet another reminder that we have to think about the long-term impact of every decision.
I hear my friends in the Colorado General Assembly groan about how little money is available for the legislative session beginning Wednesday. The ARPA money has done dried up and how are they going to keep all these programs going without the printed mana from DC? (Maybe not start the programs to begin with?) Maybe a scarcity in cash under the Gold Dome is a good thing. Regardless, we should pray for wisdom for our friends in Denver.
And speaking of the legislative session, let’s lift up all our legislators in prayer. I have so many dear friends heading to Denver, some for the first time, to represent my beloved Weld County: Barb, Byron, Scott, Ryan A, Ryan G., Lori, Dusty, Carlos, and Dan – I’m praying for you – and call me if you need anything.
And to Gabe, who assumed his role on Friday in D.C. – extra prayers, my friend. You have a unique opportunity to help create dramatic and needed change – we’ve got your back and have you lifted up!
Biblical Wisdom for the New Year
As we tackle these changes, both big and small, let’s be reminded of Proverbs 2:6-8:
“For the Lord gives wisdom; from his mouth come knowledge and understanding. He holds success in store for the upright, he is a shield to those whose walk is blameless, for he guards the course of the just and protects the way of his faithful ones.”
Here’s the thing about leadership: you don’t have to have all the answers. (Yes, that includes the panicked moment when someone asks a question in a meeting, and everyone looks at you.) What matters is seeking wisdom from the One who does. God promises to guide those who lead with integrity, and let’s be honest—we could all use a little extra guidance when the stakes are high.
Leadership Resolutions for 2025
Now, I’m not one for overly ambitious New Year’s resolutions (I’ve learned my lesson after the “no sugar” fiasco of 2019), but here are a few practical goals for us as leaders in 2025:
- Keep the Main Thing the Main Thing: With so much noise—political debates, economic shifts, and let’s not forget that inbox—we need to stay focused on what really matters. Faith, integrity, and serving others aren’t just leadership buzzwords; they’re the foundation of our calling.
- Lead by Example: If we pass it or suggest it, we should first follow it. It’s a small step that shows we’re serious about our work.
- Laugh More: Leadership is serious business, but it doesn’t have to be joyless. I don’t care what Kamala said. I think the last four or five years have been completely devoid of joy. Whether it’s finding humor in your own mistakes (I’ve got a long list) or creating a positive atmosphere for your team, remember: joy is contagious, and it doesn’t cost a thing.
- Bridge the Gaps: Political divisions aren’t going anywhere, but we don’t have to feed the fire. As leaders, we have the unique opportunity to model respectful dialogue and build relationships across divides. Stand firm by your principles, but do so with kindness. To embrace the colloquial: Disagree without being disagreeable.
Leadership, especially in Colorado, is never boring. The challenges we face as leaders are opportunities to grow, serve, and make a difference.
As we move forward into 2025, let’s commit to leading with wisdom, humility, and just enough humor to keep things light. God is with us, guiding our steps, and that’s the greatest assurance we could ever have.
Here’s to a new year filled with bold leadership, unexpected blessings, and maybe even a little time to breathe. We’ve got this—because He’s got us.
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