September 22, 2022
Hey Friends,
Doesn’t it seem like post-Covid every little piece of our lives has taken out of some great big bag and been laid out on the kitchen table?
For many, the disruption of the pandemic has caused us to reconsider the normal routines and patterns we just took for granted.
It’s like we’ve stopped mid-hike on a well-worn mountain trail and asked “where I am going? Why I am doing this again? Do I want to keep going or take this other path?”
“Can I just sit down and have a picnic?”
Job wise — people are ready for change. The Great Resignation is still underway. The World Economic Forum predicts that by the end of 2022 1 in 5 workers will have resigned.
And people are moving. Especially out of California! It seems like every month I hear of another friend packing up and heading out (Tennessee, Texas, Vermont, Idaho, anyone?)
Spiritually, so many of us reconsidering the church and our place (or lack of place) in it. Nationwide, Church attendance has yet to recover (will it ever?) from pre pandemic levels.
As we stare at the shiny and dull pieces of our lives on the table and wonder how to reconfigure them, it would be wise to consider what (OR WHO) is guiding our decisions.
I think the Great Reconsideration (I just coined this — trademark pending) is in truth, a really beautiful opportunity.
Absolutely, we should regularly pause and consider what exactly we are doing and why exactly we are doing it.
And the good news is that we have don’t have to do this sifting and curating work alone. We actually weren’t meant to do it alone.
We have a Good Shepherd that longs to lead us upon the right paths in life — in both the big and little things. That is just who He is, that is what He does.
God is glad to, with us, carefully and gently consider the pieces of our lives, and lead us along the right path. That’s why the disruption of our auto-pilot is a good thing.
But how, you ask? Good question! I can’t give it away yet.
That’s what are getting at this Sunday at 5PM as we explore Psalm 23:3 “He leads along the right paths, for his name’s sake.”
We’ll see you then!
THE ALPHA COURSE – STARTS TODAY @ 6PM
What is Alpha? Alpha is a series of conversations about things we all question in life: What’s the purpose of life? Why do bad things happen to good people? Is there a God?
It’s for those exploring what it means to follow Jesus, for those who are skeptical, for those who want to be refreshed. It is an 11 week course, but you are welcome to come to the first or second gathering to check it out, no commitment required. This is a great community to invite friends who are curious about Jesus or faith.
We are meeting on Thursdays, starting today, September 22nd from 6-8PM. Dinner Included! We’ll meet at Emanuel Lutheran’s fellowship hall. Go here for more information and to register!
WE LOVE (AND NEED) VOLUNTEERS FOR OUR CHILDREN’S MINISTRY
We have been blown away by the large number of children coming to Radiant. What an opportunity and responsibility to nourish their faith in Christ!
While we have an amazing team of volunteers, we do have a felt need for more volunteers in all age groups as we schedule out the fall. Would you be open to helping in this ministry once or twice a month?
We’ll train you and always pair you up with another teacher. It is alway two adults per class. Text Jill Riley at 209 497-3720 if you are interested in learning more.
HOME CHURCHES ARE UP AND RUNNING
Home Churches are just getting going! Our Home Church groups are smaller communities that meet during the week where we learn to practice the simple way of Jesus. No experience required, all are welcome. We usually share meal, read scripture, and consider what God is up to in and through our lives.
Currently, we have five different home groups meeting at different times and locations. If you are interested in learning about available groups and what group might be a good fit for you please contact Zach at zach@radcov.org
SECOND SUNDAY SUPPER – 10/9
Put it on your calendar. We’re doing a potluck dinner together after church on October 9th. Everyone bring a casserole (ish) dish or salad to share. We’ll gather after the worship service in the fellowship hall and feast. We’ll also have an area set aside for those who would like to learn more about Radiant vision, values, and beliefs.
BAND APP
One way to connect at Radiant is to join our BAND APP group. Think of this as a sort of Radiant message board — our own little Facebook/ Craigslist space. People can extend invites, share about needs and resources. Please join us! https://band.us/n/adaa739aX4Rca
Grace and peace!
Zach
zach@radcov.org
209-497-3710
www.radcov.org
