I give heartfelt thanks to all the members of Zion who have come to realize God’s love and grace and have devoted themselves so sincerely to the gospel. I pray that you will receive the Holy Spirit abundantly and bear much beautiful fruit.
The children of Zion are following the will of God and revealing His glory through their good deeds. In obedience to Christ’s words, “Go and make disciples of all nations . . . teaching them to obey everything I have commanded you,” they are being sent throughout the world, boldly shining the light of God Ahnsahnghong. As people see this light, God’s precious children, like radiant jewels, are streaming to Zion (Mt 28:18–20; Isa 60:1–8). When we reveal the glory of God wholeheartedly, abundant fruit naturally follows. As a result of God’s glory being revealed, many souls are being guided to the truth. These new members, too, are filled with the Holy Spirit and cannot keep the gospel to themselves. They are now testifying even more earnestly and clearly to the glory of God.
Among the prophets of faith recorded in the New Testament, the apostle Paul was one who greatly revealed Father’s glory. Paul crucified himself so that only Christ would live in him. He regarded worldly power, honor, and wealth, and anything that was not worthy of the gospel of God, as rubbish and willingly cast it all aside. With only one desire, to save as many people as possible, he humbled himself as a servant and served others with all his heart (Gal 2:20; 1 Co 9:19).
Since we also hope to receive the crown of righteousness like the apostle Paul, let us follow his example of faith. Let us be willing to endure persecution for the gospel and make sacrifices for our brothers and sisters (2 Ti 4:1–8). When the self remains alive within us, it becomes difficult to receive God’s teachings fully. Without realizing it, we may hurt our brothers and sisters instead of moving their hearts. Therefore, let us always examine ourselves before God, put down our own thoughts, and allow Christ to live in us. In this age, many people turn their ears to the words of the world rather than receiving the sound teachings of God. Yet the time given to us is precious like gold. Let us not spend it following empty and meaningless stories, but love God with all our heart, mind, strength, and even our soul. Let us also not look on silently while our neighbors are suffering and facing disasters, but with sincere love, guide them to keep the Passover, through which God grants eternal life.
Great is the reward of those who suffer persecution and hardship for righteousness (Mt 5:10–12). Noah endured much ridicule and opposition while building the ark. Abraham, too, must have faced great anguish before obeying God’s command to offer his only son as a sacrifice. Moses was in a position to inherit the throne of Egypt, yet he chose to suffer together with the people of Israel because he looked ahead to his heavenly reward. In the same way, let us also carry out deeds that are pleasing to God and worthy of receiving His reward.
As royal priests, the princes and princesses of heaven should have hearts as broad as the sea. When we hold on to hurt feelings or resentment, we may unknowingly give room to the devil, who prowls around like a roaring lion looking for someone to devour (1 Pe 5:8–9). Therefore, in every situation, let us strive not to take offense or remain hurt. When such feelings arise, it is a sign that the self is still alive within us and that Christ has not yet fully filled our hearts. The children of God are those who care for one another, comfort one another, and encourage one another with warm and loving words. Let us always remember the suffering of Father, who sacrificed Himself for us even to the point of death. Even when a brother or sister says something that wounds our heart, if we respond with understanding, patience, gentleness, and humility, that person may be deeply moved and naturally begin to change. Since each person will be rewarded according to what they have done, let us receive an “Award for Inspiring Others” when we enter the kingdom of heaven (Rev 22:11–12). I believe that those who reveal more of God’s glory will also receive greater rewards from God.
As we keep God’s commandments and reveal His glory through good deeds, many things are taking place according to prophecy: We are becoming the head in the world, and those who once troubled us are now looking up to us with respect (Dt 28:1–14; Isa 60:14–22). Both in Korea and overseas, we continue to hear many beautiful reports that people are praising God’s people, saying, “They truly live as the sons and daughters of God.” Dear beloved members of Zion, let us powerfully and abundantly reveal Father’s glory. Let us be united with one another, cherish one another, care for one another, love one another, and live in harmony. I sincerely hope that all of you will bear abundant fruit through unity and, when you enter the kingdom of heaven, receive the crown of righteousness and many heavenly rewards.
