After I received God and started my life of faith, I noticed a few things in Zion that couldn’t be seen in any other places.
First of all, it was hard to find out who was older and who had attended church longer. The reason was that I didn’t see anyone who exerted authority over others. Second, they all participated in the Bible study, cleaning, and volunteer services very actively though nobody asked them to.
These were the things that I couldn’t understand easily, because I was used to the strict order of rank in the social life. In my experience, it is usually hard to control a group, so it requires a command system. If two people are in the equal position, they are to work by setting one above the other according to their ages or experiences. However, in Zion many members worked as if they were one body, which was quite surprising to me.
As I came to Zion more and more, I was roughly able to discern who had been in the truth longer, and who was in charge of taking care of members. The funny thing was that they were the ones who were more diligent, who listened to others more, and who were humble, meaning, those who were not noticeable because they didn’t try to put a spotlight on themselves. When I found that out, I thought, ‘How can every leader be like this?’
One day, while I was growing in faith, being encouraged by the members’ support, I found the answer to my question while reading the Bible.
Jesus said to them, “The kings of the Gentiles lord it over them; and those who exercise authority over them call themselves Benefactors. But you are not to be like that. Instead, the greatest among you should be like the youngest, and the one who rules like the one who serves.” Lk 22:25–26
Probably because I was tired of following my sensitive boss’ orders at work, or maybe because it was a teaching I had never imagined, I couldn’t take my eyes off the words in Luke 22. The leading brothers and sisters, who served others in obedience to God’s word, looked great. I was also thankful that they stretched their hands to me who was just one of many people in the world.
Soon after, I listened to a sermon explaining that God the Most High served us, putting Himself in the lowest position, and that we are following God’s example. I was stunned. Who on earth would set an example of serving someone in a lower position if he has authority?
In any group, members will not have a hard time because of their relationship with others if they follow God’s example; the atmosphere of their meeting will be brighter and laughter will not cease just like in Zion.
While I was served by the members, we got more brothers and sisters who just started taking their first steps in faith. Now I found myself serving them, following those who learned the examples of Father and Mother ahead of me.
When I see new brothers and sisters get along with other members, I feel happy though I didn’t do much for them; it feels like unwrapping the gift God has given to those who serve one another.
Serving is the heavenly virtue that God has taught us. This is a guideline for my life and a great treasure in my heart. I will not forget this even for a moment, but engrave it deep upon my heart, and use it as a sharp sword that cuts my arrogant nature.