March 22, 2024
Dear Radiant,
What can we say about the “wondrous cross, on which the prince of glory died”?
No amount of theological writing or devotional reflection can exhaust the mystery and beauty of the cross.
This week, as we come to ponder again with awe and wonder, I simply invite you to meditate (perhaps sing) the words of Isaac Watts and his 1707 hymn “Whey I Survey the Wondrous Cross.”
When I survey the wondrous cross
on which the Prince of glory died,
my richest gain I count but loss,
and pour contempt on all my pride.
Forbid it, Lord, that I should boast
save in the death of Christ, my God!
All the vain things that charm me most,
I sacrifice them through his blood.
See, from his head, his hands, his feet,
sorrow and love flow mingled down.
Did e’er such love and sorrow meet,
or thorns compose so rich a crown?
Were the whole realm of nature mine,
that were a present far too small.
Love so amazing, so divine,
demands my soul, my life, my all.
We’ve been journeying toward the cross this Lent. This journey culminates this Sunday as we arrive at the crucifixion of Jesus.
See you Sunday at 5!
EVENTS CALENDAR
Home Churches are now going! Jump in one!
3/27 – Men’s Gathering 6-7 AM ELC
3/31 – Easter Sunday Service 10:30AM Brunch 11:30AM service
4/13 – Women’s Tea 10AM-12PM
4/19-21 – Men’s Conference
4/27 – Love Modesto Service Day
MEN’S CONFERENCE 4/19-21 at MISSION SPRINGS
**MAKE SURE TO SIGN-UP. Join us for a weekend of impact, challenge, and fun as we spend time in worship, fellowship, and growing in Christ. Our hope is that the men at the conference would feel empowered to rise up and seek out God despite feelings, circumstances, or situations. Register here. Also — the Fowlers have generously opened up their Mission Springs cabin and have room for ten. Let John know if you are interested. 209.345.5854
HOME CHURCHES ARE GETTING AFTER IT!
Radiant Home Churches are communities of discipleship in the way of Jesus and are foundational to our life as a church. If you are not currently in a home church, or would like to try a new Home Church, please fill out this interest form, and we’ll follow up with you! Groups has just recently started, so it’s an optimal time to jump in.
EASTER 2024
Easter is next Sunday, 3/31. We will celebrate this resurrection of Jesus, the hinge-point of history, with joy and praise (and brunch). Our service will be at 11:30AM this year — spread invites wide and far. This service will be preceded by a shared brunch with Emanuel Lutheran Church at 10:30AM.
WOMEN’S TEA – SAT. 4/13Join us as we sip on tea and listen to Laurie Short as she redirects us toward hope, perspective and a new way of seeing a world full of detours. May we begin seeing our stories with new hope. This is a great event to invite friends to. When: Saturday, April 13th 10am-12pm
Cost: $15
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 social media space. People can extend invites, share about needs and opportunities.
GIVING
Thank you for your generosity and partnership in Radiant’s ministry! Here’s the link to online giving.
Grace and Peace,
Zach
