Jeremy Leggett
“I grew up an Adventist. I began working in the telecom field and met my wife, Lisa, in my early twenties. It was during this time that church began to be a more important part of my life. I served in various capacities over the years, starting as a deacon, elder, then eventually head elder. I also assisted with Sabbath schools, music and audio/video.
From my childhood I remember feeling a burden for ministry. Even into my teen years and early adulthood I felt a burden for pastoral ministry, but it just seemed like something unattainable. In 2007, I had the opportunity to become a career firefighter. My ambition and desire allowed me to move through the ranks to the position of Lieutenant/Training Officer for my department. In spite of these successes, I still felt called to ministry.
Two years ago I recognized that God was opening doors and preparing a way, so I made the commitment to God that if ministry was something He wanted me to do, and He opened the way, I would commit 100% and go wherever He led.
I guess you could say He took me up on that promise, and I enrolled at Andrews University where I’m still taking classes. This year another door opened, and that was to begin working part time in pastoral ministry for the KYTN Conference.
When reflecting on my life, I realize now that I did not go into ministry right away because God was still working on my character. I can look back and recognize that the other jobs I’ve had were preparing me for the ministry. I like to call this my Joseph moment — Joseph realized at a young age he was called to do something, but didn’t fully understand what. All of Joseph’s life experiences were preparing him for God’s true calling on his life. I see now that I have had a similar experience and I can truly say it’s amazing how God works!
To be honest, the call to ministry has been kind of scary. I knew a lot of things in my life were going to change, but I’ve turned my worries over to God. He is the one leading, and He knows where I’m going. I don’t know all that’s ahead for me, and I’m okay with it.”
- Pastor Jeremy Leggett, from the White House Church in Tennessee.