Come and build My Kingdom

Here is Thaddeus’ story…

I could never have imagined that I would find the Messiah at my place of work. A stonemason by trade, I had been hired to do a job in the Bethesda area. It was a humble public works job, but as I always like to say, a job is a job!

I had the opportunity there to meet a carpenter who was also working on the job, Jesus of Nazareth. What surprised me most was that Jesus was not a conventional worker. He taught, and as I listened to Him speak, I saw in His teachings a power and authority I had never seen before.

I remember that moment when Jesus invited me to follow Him. He told me that He was building an eternal Kingdom, more enduring than the rocks themselves and that He wanted me to be one of His disciples. Something burned deeply within me: I knew He was the Messiah, so I accepted His offer. It was such a great privilege!

I'd never been chosen before to do something special. I'm a very simple person: in fact, I like to say that I'm simpler than stones (maybe that's why I decided to become a stonemason), so I'm not able to fully express what this opportunity to follow Him meant to me.

It changed my life and many others' lives, too, including that of my good friend, little James. His story is very unique, and we could call it a "divine connection." After talking with his family, James had decided to join the 288 voices that comprised the Jerusalem Temple Choir. As you can imagine, my friend sings very well.

Just as James was on his way to Jerusalem, we passed him on the road. Jesus and I were going to Capernaum that day to celebrate Shabbat at the home of Mary, a friend of Jesus' from Magdala. When I saw James, I embraced him warmly, as it had been a long time since we'd seen each other. I told him that I had found the Messiah and introduced him to Jesus.

Intrigued, James decided to accompany us to Capernaum and learn more about Jesus. It didn't take him long to become one of Jesus' disciples—what a privilege to serve the Messiah alongside my good friend!

My name is Thaddeus, and both my friend James and I have been chosen by Jesus.

Bible references: 1 Corinthians 1:27, Hebrews 3:4

Maybe you think your life is far too simple, or perhaps you even feel insignificant. But you are important to God, and He has plans for your life. Remember what the Bible says: "But God has chosen the foolish things of the world to put to shame the wise, and God has chosen the weak things of the world to put to shame the things which are mighty" You are chosen to shine with the Lord's light! I encourage you to share this light like Thaddeus did and tell your friends and acquaintances about Jesus. There are many "Jameses" awaiting your invitation!

You are Chosen to be a Miracle!

Christian Misch