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Rediscovering True Freedom and Joy in Christ

Have you ever felt life pulling you in too many directions at once? You’re juggling responsibilities, chasing dreams, trying to pay the bills—and somewhere in the rush, maybe you’ve lost sight of what truly matters. If this sounds familiar, I want to invite you to pause and reflect: Is it time to return to the Lord?

God gives us a clear invitation in Zechariah 1:3: “Return to Me, says the Lord of hosts, and I will return to you.” Isn’t that comforting? No matter how far we’ve wandered, God is always waiting with open arms. He knows we get distracted, chasing things like money, success, or temporary comforts, forgetting that these things can’t satisfy us deeply or eternally.

Jesus simplifies it beautifully in Matthew 6:33: “Seek first God’s kingdom and His righteousness, and all these things will be added to you.” It’s tempting to prioritize overtime at work over rest or worship, to think that material comfort is the key to happiness. But real peace and lasting joy come only when we put spiritual priorities first. God promises to care for our daily needs when our hearts seek Him sincerely.

Maybe you’re thinking, “I want freedom to enjoy life my way.” But true freedom isn’t found in simply doing what feels good or chasing every desire. Romans 6:16 reminds us: “Do you not know that to whom you present yourselves slaves to obey, you are that one’s slaves whom you obey?” Real freedom means breaking free from habits, addictions, and idols that control us. True freedom is found in following Christ, who sets boundaries designed to protect and bless us.

And how do we experience this freedom? Jesus Himself gives us the answer in John 8:31-32: “If you abide in My word, you are My disciples indeed. And you shall know the truth, and the truth shall make you free.” Genuine freedom starts with believing and living out the gospel every day, not just on Sabbaths     . It’s about being transformed by Jesus, letting Him guide our choices and shape our lives.

Maybe you’ve experienced moments when your faith felt alive and strong. But now, distractions, worries, or disappointments have dimmed that flame. You’re not alone. Just like the Israelites who quickly turned to idols after leaving Egypt, we too can easily stray from God’s path. Yet God, in His mercy, always calls us back. Psalm 1:2 encourages us to find joy again: “But his delight is in the law of the Lord, and in His law, he meditates day and night.”

Our upcoming Spring Evangelical Service and Spiritual Convocation (ESSC) is the perfect opportunity to pause, refocus, and reconnect with God. It’s a chance to experience His grace anew, to lay down burdens, and find fresh strength and purpose. Whether you’re feeling distant, tired, confused, or simply seeking deeper meaning, let’s return together to Him who truly satisfies. Come rediscover the joy and freedom found only in Christ. Because when we return to the Lord, we find He was waiting for us all along—ready to welcome us home with love, grace, and a life that truly matters.

We warmly welcome you to our upcoming Spring 2025 Evangelical Service and Spiritual Convocation. You can also join us for the Spring 2025 ESSC via online streaming.

Thursday, April 17, 2025 6:50PM to 8:10PM
Friday and Saturday, April 18-19, 2025 9:00AM to 8:10PM
Sunday, April 20, 2025 9:00AM to 1:00PM

Please find our church location below:

True Jesus Church
4N550 Church Road
Bensenville, IL 60106
 Google Maps

In the meantime, please feel free to join us for our regular Sabbath (Friday evening and Saturday) services online or in-person.

Friday Evening Service:  7:50PM – 9:00PM

Saturday Morning Service:  10:50AM – 12:00Noon

Saturday Afternoon Service:  1:30PM – 2:40PM

Email us at ilovejesus@tjc-chicago.org