Breaking the Cycle: Justice, Mercy, and the Mission of the Church | Shawn Williams & Fabian Garza

In ancient Israel, cities of refuge reflected God’s heart for justice and mercy—places of safety, restoration, and a second chance. Today, the church is called to embody that same spirit, creating spaces where grace meets brokenness and hope takes root. As we step into a new season, Willow is boldly committed to being a refuge of radical compassion, offering holistic care and spiritual support that breaks cycles of hardship and restores lives across Chicagoland. This is our calling—and our moment to live it out.

Joshua’s bold “sun, stand still” prayer wasn’t rooted in perfect understanding, but in a life shaped by God’s presence and steady spiritual formation. Even in the face of fear and uncertainty, he trusted that God could do the impossible—and God did. That’s the kind of faith we’re called to today: one that grows through daily trust, deep surrender, and ongoing transformation. As we step into a new season, Willow is committed to becoming a church marked by bold faith and lives deeply rooted in God’s presence.

Pastor Shawn Williams reminds us that the fall of Jericho wasn’t won by might, but by surrender and obedience to God. The victory was already declared—God simply called His people to walk in faith and trust Him to bring it to pass. Today, we face walls of doubt, fear, and resistance, but like Jericho, they can fall when we move forward in faith. As a church, we’re stepping into God’s mission with a bold vision and surrendered hearts, ready to see lives transformed and the future shaped by His power!

As we celebrate 50 years of God’s unwavering faithfulness at Willow, Pastor Shawn Williams invites us to reflect on all God has done and boldly trust Him for what’s ahead. Just like Joshua, we step into new beginnings with our eyes fixed firmly on God’s limitless power, not our own. The same God who parted the Red Sea and the Jordan River is leading us today, filling us with confidence that His faithfulness then guarantees His faithfulness now—because the God who has done it before will do it again!

Rahab risked everything to follow God, trading fear for faith and choosing obedience over comfort. Her yes to God not only saved her family but wove her into the very lineage of Jesus—a once-outcast turned legacy-maker. Like Rahab, we don’t have to see the full picture to say yes; we simply have to trust the One who calls us. This message invites us to take that same bold step of faith, knowing God can turn our obedience into something far greater than we could ever imagine!

God’s promise to give His people the Promised Land began with Abraham in Genesis 12:7 and was echoed generations later through Joshua, who stood at the edge of that promise with courage and faith. Though the wilderness delayed its fulfillment, it was never wasted—it was a season of preparation. Now, like Joshua, we stand at the threshold of a new season, trusting the same faithful God to lead us forward. In this message, Megan Marshman invites us into that journey, reminding us that God is still writing our story—both personally and as a church.

Have you faced the painful reality of ending a friendship? In 1 Samuel 20, Jonathan honored his friendship with David by protecting him, even when it meant saying goodbye. Their story shows that true friendship sometimes means letting go with love, courage, and peace. Pastor Shawn Williams teaches that when friendships end well, they leave behind a lasting legacy of loyalty, grace, and godly honor.

Building lasting friendships takes more than connection—it requires humility, intentionality, and selfless effort. In 1 Samuel 19, Jonathan risked everything to protect David, showing that true friendship is rooted in loyalty and love over pride and rivalry. Philippians 2:3–4 calls us to value others above ourselves, reminding us that godly friendships thrive on courage, grace, and putting others first. Pastor Thomas Anderson Jr. shows how lasting relationships thrive through honesty, forgiveness, and care—rooted in Scripture and supported by psychology—reflecting God’s love.

Loneliness seriously impacts mental, emotional, and physical health, yet God offers healing through loving, faithful friendship. The friendship between David and Jonathan shows us how humility, loyalty, and sacrificial care create deep connections. Inspired by Philippians 2, Pastor Shawn Williams encourages us to lead with compassion, take the first step, and help others move from isolation into the abundant life God intends. Discover how friendship can transform loneliness into lasting community and hope!

Gene Appel, Senior Pastor of Eastside Christian Church in Anaheim, California, started his ministry as a 20-year-old intern and has since guided the church through significant growth and community impact. A graduate of Lincoln Christian University and honorary Doctor of Divinity recipient from Hope International University, Gene is also a global church leadership coach. Formerly the Lead Pastor of Willow South Barrington in the 2000s, he continues to inspire many with his deep passion for Christ and compassionate leadership.