August 11, 2023
Hi Radiant,
Our lives change, in part, through others’ lives.
We long for mentors and guides. As imitative creatures, we are always on the hunt (or infinitely scrolling) for somebody who possesses something of the life we want.
We see something in how he organizes his schedule.
We observe something in how she deals with pressure.
But is observation alone enough for deep transformation? Usually not.
Last week, we discussed how apprenticeship to Jesus begins by being near him, watching him, observing how Jesus lived. We are invited to “come and see.” What an invitation from Jesus!
But in the Jesus way of disciple making there is much more. Jesus not only invites his disciples to be with him, he invites them to participate in what he is doing. He actually asks for their help.
To give it a shot. To take part. To get their hands dirty.
Isn’t it strange that the Lord would ask for our help. He doesn’t need it. But he does desire it. For our own good and for the good of others.
There is something about jumping into Jesus’ work that shows us how much we have to learn. We also learn that we have a gentle teacher.
In other words, our “helping” Jesus allows him to work deeply in us.
It’s not for a merit badge, or to show ourselves worthy of his love. Instead, it is a gracious extension of his love for us that he invites us to join him and his work.
Like a Dad, asking his five year old to hammer in a nail. Though the nail goes in crooked the Dad beams with delight.
Are you ready to help?
Join us this Sunday at 5pm for part two of our four-part Empowerment series. Hammers not required.
EVENTS CALENDAR (see below for details)
8/13 – Second Sunday Supper Taco Bar (following our worship service).
8/17 – Radiant Middle School Gathering (7-8:30PM at ELC)
8/18-19 – The Missio Conference (a collaborative event with Covenant Grove and Modesto Covenant Church).
9/10 – Fall Kickoff Party
9/17 – Home Churches Begin!
9/29-10/1 – Women’s Conference at Mission Springs
SECOND SUNDAY SUPPER – THIS SUNDAY – 8/13
Two words: Taco Bar. Second Sunday Supper is back — Sunday, August 13. Suggested donation is $3 per person or $10 max for family. Enjoy a meal, enjoy people!
RADIANT MIDDLE SCHOOL GATHERING – 8/17
Radiant Middle School is back! We are meeting at ELC from 7-8:30PM. Invite some friends! We’ll see you there.
THE MISSIO CONFERENCE – 8/18-8/19
This is exciting. We are joining forces with our Covenant brothers and sisters at Modesto Covenant Church and Covenant Grove to go deeper in Christ and further in mission together. This will be a Friday and Saturday in-town conference shared across our three sites. This is all about creating space for the Holy Spirit to encourage, empower, and equip us for participating in God’s mission in Modesto and beyond. Click here to learn more about schedule, speakers, and to register. BTW — don’t let registration costs be a hindrance! A kind donor has covered costs of those for whom it would be hindrance.
WOMEN’S CONFERENCE AT MISSION SPRINGS 9/29 – 10/1
Registration for our conference’s Covenant Women’s Conference is now open. This conference will take place at the beautiful Mission Springs Conference in Scotts Valley, CA. This will also be a weekend of encouragement, fellowship, and rich memory-building, all with one goal in mind, that you leave Mission Springs knowing that you are loved by God and your purpose is to love others. Click here to learn more about speakers and worship and to register.
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 resources, and commit to pray for one another. Please join us! https://band.us/n/adaa739aX4Rca
GIVING
Thank you for your generosity and partnership in ministry! Here’s the online link for giving, tithes, and offerings.
Grace and Peace,
Zach
