Cultivating a Relational, Christ-Centered Community
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Dear Radiant,
As we boldly march into 2012, eager to pursue God’s Kingdom purposes, we want to ask you to pause and take time to thank our 2011 Elder Team – Laurence and Wendy Dunn, Greg and Bonnie Knopf, and Don and Gail Gunstone – for their sacrificial, faithful service last year. In the midst of very busy lives and demanding schedules, they have generously given their time, talents, wisdom, and resources for the sake of Radiant‘s ongoing spiritual vitality. Exciting new developments are happening in their lives for wider impact and specialized ministry focus in this new year; we‘ll share more on that at our next Gathering. This fall, the Elder Team sought to hear God‘s heart for Radiant in 2012. We’d like to highlight a few of the things we heard in harmony:
At Radiant, our relationships and community take priority over programs. We are following the lead of the Holy Spirit to build a Christ-centered community that cultivates multi-generational life-on-life encounters around interactive Bible study. Our goal is not to grow big church programs, but to release you to follow Jesus in the unique ministry He has prepared just for you!
Radiant mentors through modeling. We are real about our struggles and authentic as we talk about doing life with Jesus. We refuse to hide conflicts in our own souls, wear masks, and live a life of pretense. We will allow the Gospel of grace to eclipse the facade of performance and cosmetic Christianity.
Radiant Servant Leaders do not simply pass on information. They invest in people. They make room, on purpose, for individuals to discover and use their God-given strengths in our community. Every gift has value! Like farmers, servant leaders plant seeds and wait patiently, caring for and cultivating what they‘ve planted. We all trust God to be Lord of the harvest, and to bring increase according to His timing.
Looking back, we are in awe of God‘s goodness and grace to Radiant. Looking ahead, we sense joy, joy, joy. But for now – let‘s honor those who have diligently labored among us for God‘s glory. Please express your gratitude to our elders, and to the many other servant leaders who cheerfully set up, tear down, and work behind the scenes, preferring not to be noticed. They are the humble, strong backbone of our community, highly esteemed by God.
One final challenge. Our fellow travelers need others who will dialogue with them, inspire them to pursue their dreams and God-given assignments. Who will you engage in spiritual conversation this week? Who will you share a story with from your journey with God? Let‘s ask the Holy Spirit to lead us, and then act. It’s a new year. Let the adventures begin!
Those who sow in tears will reap with joy! (Psalm 126:5)
With our love, John and Pam
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