Light of the World

Now that our Annual Conference has closed and the appointments for the Tennessee-Western Kentucky Conference have been set, United Methodists across our connection begin to prepare for the exciting new realities that are about to unfold with new and continuing appointments.

We, at Hilldale United Methodist Church, count ourselves among the number of churches experiencing a change in pastoral leadership. As the child of a Methodist pastor, I can affirm this work is not always easy. I am grateful to my friend and colleague the Rev. Stephen Sauls for his leadership at Hilldale, his faithfulness to God, his service throughout our conference, and his continued friendship. I must confess, when the cabinet shared with me that I would be following Stephen, I had my share of trepidation in knowing I would follow not only a dear friend, but a clergy colleague whom I deeply admired. Through this season of transition, Stephen has been nothing but kind, loving, and generous, as I have always known him to be.

At the same time, I could barely contain my joy in knowing that I would have an opportunity to serve, not only alongside you, but with my friend, sister, and fellow ordinand Mary Kate Myers. As the cabinet considered her appointment last year, I could do nothing but affirm her gifts, graces, faithfulness, and amazing spirit—which made her the perfect fit to lead the charge of relaunching the APSU Wesley Foundation and colead the ministry and life of Hilldale. I have long admired Mary Kate’s work, presence, and the seemingly effortless ability she has to convey profound truths in a way that resonates with people of all ages. I am honored to serve alongside her as a fellow laborer in Christ’s vineyard.

Let me also express my deep gratitude to the leadership of Hilldale. Dr. Miller, the leadership, and staff have extended to me and my family uncommon hospitality, grace, and love. In big and small ways, they have shown Linda, the girls, and me Christ-like love, and I am forever thankful.

As we approach July 7, which will be my first Sunday in the pulpit, I have been reflecting on what would be an appropriate word to share with you. As I have continued to read and learn about Hilldale, the church on the hill, I have considered the words of Jesus in the Beatitudes, particularly Matthew 5:14-16: "You are the light of the world. A city on top of a hill can’t be hidden. Neither do people light a lamp and put it under a basket. Instead, they put it on top of a lampstand, and it shines on all who are in the house. In the same way, let your light shine before people, so they can see the good things you do and praise your Father who is in heaven."

With these verses in mind, I invite you to join us in the month of July as we engage in a sermon series titled "Light of the World." This series will focus on how we, as a community of faith, can embody the light of Christ in our daily lives and in our ministry together. Here is an outline of the upcoming sermons:

Week 1: "A City on a Hill"
Sermon Texts: Matthew 5:14-16; Isaiah 60:1-3
Description: What does it mean to be a city on a hill? Join us as we kick off our "Light of the World" sermon series and explore the significance of being a visible and responsible witness in our community. 

Week 2: "Let Your Light Shine"
Sermon Texts: Matthew 5:16a; Philippians 2:14-16
Description:  Are you ready to let your light shine? This week, we’ll discuss how each of us can reflect Christ’s love through our daily actions and personal witness. Learn practical ways to embody kindness, charity, and love in your everyday interactions. Be the light in someone’s life!

Week 3: "Glorifying Your Father in Heaven"
Sermon Texts: Matthew 5:16b; 1 Peter 2:12
Description: How do your actions glorify God? Join us as we delve into how our good works and righteous living can point others to God. Understand the importance of living honorably and bringing glory to our Father in Heaven through our everyday deeds. Be inspired to live a life that reflects God’s glory!

Week 4: "The Light of the World"
Sermon Texts: John 8:12; Ephesians 5:8-14
Description:  How can we shine together as the light of the world? In our final sermon of the series, we will tie together the themes of individual and collective witness. Learn how our church can be a beacon of hope and love, illuminating the path for others to find Christ. Let’s light up the world together!