by Will Hopson

(First of a five-part series on the Core Values of LowCountry Community Church)

In this fast-paced, modern world, it's easy to feel disconnected and overwhelmed. Yet, in the midst of life's chaos, the teachings of Jesus offer hope and transformation. By connecting with Jesus and forming meaningful relationships with fellow believers, we can experience incredible life change. These connections with God and others not only secure our eternal future but also enrich our present reality, providing practical steps to integrate faith into our everyday lives.

Connecting with Jesus Changes Our Eternity

Throughout the Gospels, we find countless stories of people having transformative encounters with Jesus. As we reflect on these stories, think about the paralyzed man whose friends lowered him through the roof to reach Jesus, or the blind man whose sight Jesus restored. Consider Peter, one of Jesus' disciples, who left everything to follow Him. Peter's journey with Jesus was far from perfect—it was messy. He went from walking on water to cutting off a man's ear, to denying Jesus three times, and finally being restored by Jesus to become the rock on which the early church was built.

The reality is that every follower of Jesus, from the New Testament to today, has had an encounter with Him that changed their eternity. By putting our faith in Jesus as your Lord and Savior, confessing our sins, and believing in His perfect life, death on the cross, and resurrection, we are saved. This connection with Jesus changes our eternity, promising eternal life and communion with Him forever.

In Luke 6, we see a pivotal moment when Jesus calls His twelve apostles. Before making this significant decision, Jesus spends the whole night in prayer, demonstrating the importance of time with God. Jesus understood that time with His Father was always well spent. When was the last time you spent meaningful time alone with God, praying, singing, or talking to Him about our current circumstances?

Jesus chose a group of ordinary people to invest in, be vulnerable with, and live life alongside. They were not religious elites; they were willing, available, and dedicated to Jesus' calling. This shows the importance of surrounding yourself with a community of believers who can support and encourage you.

Connecting with Other Believers Changes Our Present Reality

The early church, as described in Acts 2:42-47, thrived on the principles of teaching, fellowship, breaking bread, and prayer. Their faith was central to their lives, fostering a strong community that supported one another through life's challenges. They were connected by their faith, and it changed their realities. Life was still tough; there was still sickness and heartbreak, but they faced these challenges together, supported by God and their fellow believers.

What does your life revolve around? Is it your faith, your job, finances, hobbies, or family? While none of these things are inherently wrong, strive to center your life around Christ. When you do, everything else, including Sunday mornings, small group nights, and community involvement, falls into place.

Making time for what we value is essential. Whether it's prioritizing church, small groups, or personal time with God, these connections are crucial. Diving into the community here at LCC can be one of the best decisions of your life. The support and encouragement from friends, staff, and your life group can make even the hardest days better.

Hebrews 10:24-25 encourages us to consider how to spur one another on toward love and good deeds, not giving up meeting together but encouraging one another. The church should be the most encouraging place you end up each week. By connecting with Jesus, you change your eternity, and by connecting with other believers, you change your present reality.

Watch the full message below.

Will Hopson is the Outreach Pastor at LowCountry Community Church