Hills Church

As one year ends and another begins, it’s natural to reflect and consider what’s next. But what if the most important decision for the new year isn’t about resolutions or ambitions, but about who or what we choose to follow? This reflection reminds us of a timeless truth: the invitation of Jesus Christ to follow Him as the light of the world.
In John 8:12, Jesus proclaimed, “I am the light of the world. Whoever follows me will never walk in darkness but will have the light of life.” This call to follow is not passive or casual; it’s an invitation to walk closely with Him, to align our steps with His in continuous obedience and devotion. Following Jesus demands surrender—leaving behind ambitions or comforts that might hold us back. But what we gain is infinitely greater: the light of life, a transformative force that brings clarity, meaning, and hope to every corner of existence.
As the new year dawns, it’s a powerful moment to consider how we are letting that light shine. Are we letting it transform our relationships, guide our decisions, and give us hope in challenging times?​ As we step into 2025, the challenge is clear: will we follow Jesus with all we have? Will we embrace His light, not just for ourselves but so that others might see His glory through our lives? Let this be a year of deep surrender, vibrant hope, and unwavering faith.
Prayer Prompt:
​"​Lord Jesus, as I walk into this new year, I long to follow You fully and walk in Your light. Where I have held onto ambitions or fears, help me release them into Your hands. Let Your light transform my heart and shine through my life so that others may see Your love, goodness, and truth. Teach me to walk in step with You, trusting Your guidance in every situation. May Your light bring clarity to my choices, peace to my relationships, and hope to my future. Amen.​"
Discussion Questions:
–​ What does it mean to you personally to follow Jesus as the light of the world?
–​ What are some “costs” you’ve experienced in your journey with Christ, and how have they been outweighed by His blessings?
–​ How can you let the light of Christ shine more visibly in your life this year?

The King who serves, the Servant who reigns: Jesus redefines greatness in a world of power and pride.

Throughout the Bible, Jesus is repeatedly identified as a king. The prophets of the Old Testament painted vivid pictures of His sovereignty. Daniel’s vision described Him as one "given authority, glory, and sovereign power" with a kingdom that will never end (Daniel 7:13-14). In Revelation, Jesus is declared "King of kings and Lord of lords," a warrior triumphant over evil, crowned with majesty (Revelation 19:11-16).

Yet, Jesus never boasted about His kingship. His authority was evident not in political domination or wealth but in His divine nature and mission. When He said, "All authority in heaven and on earth has been given to me" (Matthew 28:18), He claimed a kingship far greater than any earthly ruler—one that transcends time and space.

While the world’s kings are surrounded by luxury and demand service, Jesus chose a radically different path. He came not to be served but to serve, giving His life as a ransom for many (Mark 10:45). His life on earth was marked by humility: born in a manger, living as a carpenter, walking alongside the marginalized.

In one of His final acts before the crucifixion, Jesus knelt to wash His disciples' feet—a task reserved for the lowest servant. When Peter resisted, Jesus replied, "Unless I wash you, you have no part with me" (John 13:8). Through this act, He demonstrated that true leadership is rooted in service. He then instructed, "Now that I, your Lord and Teacher, have washed your feet, you also should wash one another’s feet" (John 13:14-15). The Servant King called His followers to mirror His humility and love.

Jesus' example calls us to embrace servanthood, not as a sign of weakness but as a mark of divine strength. The Apostle Paul captured this beautifully in Philippians 2:6-8, describing how Jesus, though God, "made himself nothing" and humbled Himself to death on a cross. His ultimate goal was redemption—a transformative act of love that broke the power of sin and brought new life to humanity.

Living as servants means rejecting the world's obsession with status and power. It’s a call to prioritise others, to act with compassion, and to embody Christ’s humility in every sphere of life. Whether at home, work, or in the community, every act of service—big or small—echoes the heart of Jesus.

Prayer Prompt:

“Lord Jesus, You who reign over all, yet stooped to serve, transform my heart. Teach me to walk humbly, to love deeply, and to serve selflessly. Open my eyes to the needs around me, and give me the courage to meet them with Your compassion. May my life reflect Your grace and point others to Your kingdom. Strengthen me to live as You did, with a heart full of love and a spirit willing to serve. Amen.”

Discussion Questions:

– How does the example of Jesus washing His disciples’ feet challenge your understanding of leadership and greatness?

– In what ways can you reflect Jesus' servant-hearted love in your daily interactions with others?

– What practical steps can you take to embrace humility and service in areas where you naturally seek recognition or power?

When we think of Jesus, what image comes to mind? For some, it’s a gentle teacher; for others, a powerful Saviour. Yet, much like a Rubik’s Cube, the many facets of Jesus—King, Friend, Saviour, Teacher—interweave into a multidimensional, vibrant whole. Each face, each role, reveals a deeper truth about Him. But what happens when we limit Jesus to only the aspects that feel convenient or comfortable for us?

This question is vital as we navigate the story of Christmas, a season when Jesus is often viewed solely as the baby in a manger. That’s true, of course, but He’s so much more. He’s also the King of Kings who stepped into our world, bringing the infinite into the finite, revealing who He is—and who we are meant to be.

In a moment of playful reflection, imagine Jesus as a multicoloured Rubik’s Cube. Each side—Teacher, Friend, Saviour, King—represents an essential truth about Him. Just as every twist and turn integrates those colours into a cohesive whole, Jesus embodies all His roles simultaneously. He is not one facet at a time; He simply is.

The challenge is that we often compartmentalise Jesus. We might embrace His love and mercy but shy away from His holiness and justice. Or we welcome His companionship while neglecting His kingship. This selective perspective risks missing out on the richness of who He is—and His transformational power in our lives.

As the season of Christmas approaches, brimming with its joys and challenges, let’s ask ourselves: Are we willing to let go of our limited perceptions of Jesus? Are we ready to embrace the fullness of who He is—the Relational King who desires not just a moment but a lifetime of connection with us?

A Prayer For Revelation:

"Jesus, King of Kings, thank You for stepping into our world and inviting us into Yours. Help us to see You as You truly are, not as we’ve made You to be. Open our eyes to the beauty and complexity of Your character—Your love, holiness, power, and humility. Show us where we’ve confined You to the edges of our lives, and draw us into deeper relationship with You. May we surrender to Your kingship and trust Your wisdom, even when we don’t understand. Teach us to follow You fully, with hearts wide open to Your truth. Amen."

Discussion Questions:

– Have you tended to compartmentalise Jesus in your life? If so, how?

– What aspect of Jesus’ character are you being invited to rediscover this season?

– How does embracing the fullness of Jesus change the way you live, worship, and relate to others?

As the Christmas season draws near, many of us are caught up in traditions—the twinkling lights, the carols, the familiar sight of the baby in a manger.

While these are beautiful symbols of joy and hope, they can sometimes obscure a deeper truth: Christmas is not just about a birth. It is about the arrival of a King. This King is unlike any other. He did not come for wealth, power, or glory as the world defines them. He came to bring salvation, to restore what was lost, and to reign forever in the hearts of His people.

In our comfort, we often prefer to think of Jesus as the baby in the manger—innocent, approachable, and unthreatening. But this baby is also the King of Kings, who holds all authority in heaven and on earth. From the moment of His arrival, the world began to change. His birth fulfilled centuries-old promises, pointing to a kingdom that would never end. This King is not distant or detached; He entered our world, experiencing our joys and sorrows, to draw near to us in a way we could never imagine.

The beauty of Christmas lies not just in the celebration of His birth but in the recognition of what His coming represents. Jesus came to bridge the gap between God and humanity, to offer a love so profound that it required Him to leave the perfection of heaven for the brokenness of earth. This King’s story doesn’t end in a stable—it unfolds in a life of perfect obedience, a sacrificial death, and a triumphant resurrection. As we prepare for Christmas, may we look beyond the manger to behold our King and recognise the depth of His love and the magnitude of His mission.

Prayer Prompt:

“Jesus, King of Kings, thank You for leaving the glory of heaven to walk among us. Thank You for Your humility, for Your willingness to endure the brokenness of this world, and for giving everything to restore our relationship with You. Help us to live in the light of Your love this season and beyond. May our words, actions, and attitudes reflect the grace and kindness You have shown us. Let Your kingdom come in our lives, and let Your love be evident to all we encounter. Amen.”

Discussion Questions:

– How can understanding Jesus as King transform the way we approach Christmas?

– In what ways can you reflect the humility and love of Christ in your interactions with others this season?

In a quiet room filled with expectant faces, a woman stepped forward carrying an alabaster jar, a vessel filled with precious, fragrant oil. She walked to Jesus, broke the jar, and poured its contents over His head in a stunning act of devotion. This story, nestled in Mark 14:3, is more than just an anecdote; it is an invitation to a life of wholehearted worship.

The alabaster jar was not just a container; it symbolised something deeply personal—a treasure of immense value, offered in total surrender. This woman, unnamed yet unforgettable, did not hold back. She gave Jesus her best, leaving no room for hesitation. Her gesture embodied worship that flows from a heart drenched in love and humility, covering Jesus from head to toe.

This story is a mirror to the ultimate act of love Jesus demonstrated. His body was the alabaster jar that was broken on the cross. His blood was the precious oil poured out, not for a single person but for all of humanity—a gift that reconciles us to God. It is the purest form of love, a love that still flows into our lives today, breaking barriers and healing wounds.

So, what is your alabaster jar? What are the treasures, dreams, or fears you hold onto tightly? Are there parts of your life that remain unyielded, barriers that keep you from pouring out your devotion to Jesus?

Prayer Prompt:

"Lord, I bring before You the jar of my heart. I ask for the courage to break it open and pour out my love, fears, and dreams at Your feet. Help me to trust You with my treasures and surrender the barriers that keep me from full devotion. May my worship drench You with adoration, not just in words but in every part of my life. Teach me to see You in those around me and to thank You for the ways You work through them. Let my life be an offering, overflowing with Your love and grace. Amen."

Discussion Questions:

– What does the alabaster jar represent in your life? Are there areas you struggle to surrender to God?

– How can you worship God with your “whole being” in your daily life?

– Who has God used in your life to bless or encourage you, and how can you express gratitude to them and to Him?

A call to worship and service.

There’s a profound picture painted in Scripture: God enthroned, with the earth as His footstool. This image, both humbling and majestic, invites us to examine what it means to worship at the feet of our Creator. Worship, after all, isn’t simply a song or a ritual—it’s an act of surrender, a declaration of who God is and who we are before Him.

In biblical times, falling at someone’s feet symboli​ses reverence, submission, and deep humility. Throughout the Gospels, we encounter people instinctively falling at Jesus’ feet. Jairus, desperate for his daughter’s healing; a broken woman, pouring out her tears and perfume in worship; and even a man possessed by demons, compelled to bow in acknowledgment of Jesus' authority.

This act of bowing, even in the physical grime and humility of dirty feet, spoke volumes. It wasn’t about the state of their surroundings but the state of their hearts. It was about recognising the treasure before them—a treasure so valuable that all else pales in comparison.

Jesus made it clear that true worship flows into service. When asked about the greatest commandment, He pointed to two: love God with all your heart, soul, mind, and strength, and love your neighbour as yourself. These aren’t separate commands but interconnected expressions of devotion.

To worship God is to serve Him, and serving often requires humility. 

As we step into ​a new seasons—both individually and as a community—the challenge is to keep worship and service central. Whether in moments of celebration or uncertainty, whether building relationships or tackling practical decisions, we’re reminded to keep our eyes on Jesus, the Author and Finisher of our faith.

The question remains: What does it look like to treasure the Gospel in our lives? Are we willing to make sacrifices, to serve others, and to worship with all that we have?

When we align our hearts with God’s purposes, the beauty of worship and the power of service flow naturally together, transforming not only our lives but also the lives of those around us.

Prayer Prompt:
“Lord, help me to see the immeasurable value of the treasure You’ve entrusted to me. Teach me to worship You with humility and joy, to serve with a willing heart, and to love with abandon. May my life reflect Your glory, and may I always stand in awe of Your greatness. Amen.”

Discussion Questions:

An Invitation Into Wholehearted Intimacy

In Luke 10:38-42, Martha and Mary model two responses to Jesus: service and intimacy. Martha welcomed Him into her home and busied herself with preparation, while Mary sat at His feet, listening to His words. Jesus gently affirmed Mary’s choice, calling it the "good portion" and reminding us that one thing is necessary—being with Him.

This choice to prioritise Jesus is echoed in Psalm 16:5: "The Lord is my chosen portion and my cup." While service is important, intimacy with Him must come first. From that place of abiding, everything else flows naturally.

On Sunday, Hannah shared a dream illustrating the danger of distractions — flirting with things that pull us from Him. Flirting with another, in this sense, is allowing our heart's to shift away from Him. It’s when the busyness of life, the pursuit of success, or even our good deeds begin to rival the time and attention that should be given to sitting at His feet.

Jesus’s response to Martha reminds us that He desires an undivided heart. His jealousy, as revealed in Scripture, isn’t about control but about love—a love so deep that He wants all of us, not just a part. This exclusive devotion isn’t a heavy burden but an invitation into wholehearted intimacy.

So how do we live with a heart fully devoted to Jesus? It starts with choosing Him daily. Just as Mary intentionally sat at His feet, we must carve out time to sit with Him, listen to His voice, and be in His presence. This isn’t passive but an active, ongoing choice to prioritise relationship with Him over the distractions of life. As we do, everything else—our serving, loving others, and fulfilling responsibilities—flows naturally from that place of devotion.

Discussion Questions:

In the Gospel of Luke, we read of two encounters where people experienced the love of Jesus in life-transforming ways. First, a woman known for her shameful past approached Jesus at a gathering, anointing His feet with costly perfume and her tears. She risked judgment and rejection but could not stay silent after being touched by Jesus’ forgiveness. Despite the harsh judgment of those present, Jesus welcomed her worship and loved her as she was.

In another encounter, ten lepers—cast off from society because of their disease—called out to Jesus for mercy. Jesus healed them all, but only one, a Samaritan, returned to give thanks. In returning to Jesus, this man found not only physical healing but also acceptance. Both stories demonstrate Jesus’ willingness to meet us where we are, heal our visible and hidden wounds, and give us peace.

These encounters remind us of the love and acceptance available to each of us. Jesus calls us to bring Him our heaviest burdens and promises us His peace. In the same way, we are called to walk alongside others in love, to offer our listening ear, and to be a reminder of God’s grace in their lives. May we respond with hearts full of gratitude and, like the leper who returned, fall at His feet in worship.

Discussion Questions:

The act of communion reaches beyond the present moment, weaving us into a story that God has crafted through generations. It reminds us that faith is communal, uniting us with believers across the globe who gather to remember Christ’s sacrifice. Every time we share the bread and the cup, we affirm our place in a vast family defined by love, forgiveness, and unity in Jesus.

Locally, communion ties us to the history of our church. Established 73 years ago, our church family includes those who first gathered here, those who have joined over the years, and those yet to come. We are part of a legacy, sharing in communion just as others before us did and just as future generations will. This act connects us to a community that is both timeless and present.

Communion also illustrates the beauty of collective worship, showing that, while our individual walk with God is valuable, worship gains depth in community. It’s a practice that centres us on Christ’s love and sacrifice, reminding us that we’re invited to share in His life, His forgiveness, and His grace. We eat the bread and drink the cup, not as a mere tradition but as a powerful reminder of our unity in Christ.

Let’s celebrate our unity, honouring the family God has given us and the calling we share to support one another. In communion, our “many-ness becomes oneness,” embodying the life Christ gives and the family He invites us into.

Discussion Questions:

Jesus’ feeding of the 5,000 reveals the beauty of simple offerings given with an open heart. With only five barley loaves and two fish from a young boy, Jesus performs a miracle, nourishing a multitude. This story emphasises that God values every act of worship, whether it seems small or grand, polished or humble.

Jesus’ time spent in solitude with God, even as He prepared to meet the crowd’s needs, demonstrates the importance of worship in all we do. As we navigate our daily lives, we’re invited to offer our own “loaves and fish”—small acts of gratitude, kindness, or prayer that might seem ordinary but carry immense value in God’s eyes.

Our family gatherings, work challenges, or mundane tasks become opportunities to share our hearts with God. Jesus’ actions of gathering the leftovers and giving thanks remind us that nothing He provides should be wasted, and each offering has purpose.

The challenge is to recognise the ordinary moments of our day as chances to worship God. Let’s not hold back, thinking our efforts are too small. Like the boy who shared his lunch, we can trust that what we bring to God can be used beyond what we imagine. He cherishes it all, weaving each act of love into a larger story of blessing and abundance.

Discussion Questions: