Along the Way

Relationships, Partnerships, and Friendsihps
Community and Blessing

A couple of weeks ago, we noticed a gentleman out and about in the Village. He was wearing a sunhat and sunglasses, and carrying a small can of paint and a paint brush. Moving along a path that been known but undistinguished, he proceeded about and painted a light-blue stroke of paint along trees and poles with great care - the color of distinction of the Buckeye Trail.

After years of work from Hiram Village, the Buckeye Trail now moves into and through Hiram. And because of the church’s generosity and partnership, the Trail also moves into and through the grounds of Hiram Christian Church.

From the South, the Buckeye Trail merges with the path through the native meadow and into the parking lot. It moves north across the lot and then West at the corner. There are at least four blue stripes on the church grounds - markers and guides for hikers to continue on.

It’s a wonderful development, and telling of all that we can do to help others find and continue on their way.

Ideas and conversation. Time and energy. Negotiation and persuasion. Gift and sacrifice. Hospitality and care.

It’s part of what we do as a people of hospitality and as fellow sojourners; part of what we do as the Church.

I hope that you’ll come and admire this fresh paint around town and on our grounds. And I hope that you’ll take a moment to reflect and remember who has helped provide the markers and prepare the path for you. I hope you’ll take a moment to offer gratitude, and then consider what we as Hiram Christian Church are doing and may still do to prepare the way for others and encourage us all as we proceed along.

Blessings in your coming and going, and along all the paths you encounter this Summer.

Rev. Chris McCreight

The video recording of the sermon, “You’re Doing Great” is not available due to some absolutely perfect visitation from one of our young people, but the manuscript can be found here.

In Our Church and Community: