“And whatever you do, do it heartily, as to the Lord and not to men, knowing that from the Lord you will receive the reward of the inheritance; for you serve the Lord Christ.” Colossians 3:23-24

“I now know—and experienced—that people who go all out to help others do exist. They are real.” LC

“Thank you for showing us the way in the dark. Thank you for igniting the light in shadows of doubts, that there still is a path in the mire. Thank you for being steadfast in shepherding us to better versions of ourselves, even when we are being wayward bunch of cats bouncing off the walls and even resorting to the “Wheel of Fortune” in divining what intelligence has failed.” JK

“I know that the sacrifices you’ve made for us far exceeds what is seen. Thank you for showing us Christ through your selfless acts of love. We are so grateful to have you in our family.” LL

These were the quotes from people who recently went through an immersion of an innovation process with a Godly overture to transform themselves for the larger good. These quotes testify the power of selflessness, willingness to work together and sacrificial spirit.

Some background. These people work for a social impact enterprise which, despite its noble cause in regenerating barren land, face the reality that the means to sustain such good work purely from government grants was not sustainable. They began to “doubt” and wonder if such works are even goals they should pursue when they can’t even sustain their own livelihood.

I’m sure we all have our version of heroic “regenerating barren land” quests. We all long to be part of something bigger than ourselves. We choose that because it brings meaning. Working together on a Godly hefty goal brings us together and to get things done, and we need to rely on one another. These people did exactly that…and then the “I” became a “We”, the dark became light, the worries turned to hope and confidence.

Even more than deep fellowship, what we seek form others is the sense that they have our back—just as we have theirs. What’s more, for where two or three are gathered together in His name, He is there in the midst of them. It is up to us—physically, virtually, spiritually—to open our doors to God.

In whatever we do, we should seek ways to increase engagement—no matter where or how we live and work. Everyone of us must show up, be present—with authenticity and vulnerability and surrendering to God. If we are not our real selves then we will never achieve the real relationship that lasts in our journey of life. In a world that is increasingly virtual, people may be reluctant to bring their real selves to work, play and live. Being virtual and not present can lead to leading siloed lives—separating ourselves like fire and ice. God’s will is for us to be together…loving, caring and edifying each other and God. Togetherness divides the task and multiplies the success.

So, fellow friends and family members, we all have some form of leadership responsibility at home, work or community. We have an important role to play modelling what real people do. Leadership starts with selflessness—it’s not about you. Bring empathy—meeting others where they are. Most importantly, show our true selves—who we are, not just what we and do.

When we ignite relationships like that, we feel connected, we fit in. And when we fit in, we belong. And when we belong, we can truly see and notice others—both the colleagues with us, and those who are missing, not present.

Please join us in a journey that leads to eternal life starting with Sabbath service in person. We also warmly invite you to come to the True Jesus Church’s bi-annual Evangelical Service and Spiritual Convocation.  See details below.

18-21 April, 2024 Evangelical Service and Spiritual Convocation

Thursday, 18 April, 2024 6:50PM to 8:10PM
Friday and Saturday, 19-20 April, 2023 9:00AM to 8:10PM
Sunday, 21 April, 2024 9:00AM to 1:00PM
Complimentary lunch and dinner will be served.

Please find our church location below:

4N550 Church Road
Bensenville, IL 60106
 Google Maps

For online streaming, please click here.

For regular service hours, please click here.

Email us at ilovejesus@tjc-chicago.org