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Transforming into People who Live with Hope & Love by Michelle Andrews
Christians around the world are currently in the season of Lent - the 40 days, not counting Sundays, before Easter. It is a time of preparing to celebrate Jesus's resurrection and a season of reflecting on who we believe Jesus is. Believing in Jesus is more than hoping and wishing that there is "someone or something out there" who will work everything out.
Believing in Jesus is a way of living with a deepening understanding that we all have within us the image of God; that we have the ability to live in ways that make the world a better, kinder and more just place for all people. A belief in Jesus leads to a more fulfilling life.
At Valencia UMC, we believe "We all have stuff and that's OK." None of us are free from regrets. We all have areas in our lives that could use some cleaning up. Believing in Jesus is an invitation into a relationship that transforms us into people who live with hope and love.
Join us this Lent for weekly in-person and online worship, and a 6-week Bible study (groups meet a variety of days/times) to learn about how believing in Jesus changes lives.
Michelle Andrews is pastor of Valencia United Methodist Church. umcv.org

Getting to Know Calvary Chapel Golden Valley by Jack Winkle
Greetings from the people of Calvary Chapel Golden Valley! We are located in the east part of the Santa Clarita Valley, with services on Sunday morning, mid-week Bible Study, Men's and Women's Bible Studies and a Special Needs Service.
We are a traditional Calvary Chapel - teaching the Bible chapter by chapter, book by book. By studying God's Word together, we learn how ordinary people can live extraordinary lives through the power of God, thanks to the grace and peace we have in our Savior, Jesus Christ.
Our services are livestreamed, but we'd really love to have you come join us in person. There is no substitute for the fellowship of people getting together to worship God and study His Word.
Hebrews 10:24-25 says, "And let us consider one another in order to stir up love and good works, not forsaking the assembling of ourselves together, as is the manner of some, but exhorting one another, and so much the more as you see the Day approaching."
Watching the world around us, I think that "Day" is closer than ever. Come join us!
Jack Winkle is pastor of Calvary Chapel Golden Valley.
calvarychapelgoldenvalley.org

Why "Love" is not Enoughby Dave White
People say they love God, but that's not enough for our Savior. Jesus wants passion! Christ wants a fresh, vibrant, thriving relationship with us. He warns us. Even if you're orthodox, dutiful and hardworking, if you forsake and abandon the initial affection you had with me at first, I'll remove your influence and your light (Revelation 2:4).
If you're not sizzling hot, I'll spit you out (Revelation 3:16). Lukewarm is unacceptable.
It's no fun when any relationship cools off, drifts apart and unravels. Let's be honest; cordial is cold. Everyone wants to be cherished, treasured and prized. All people want to be yearned for and longed for. No one likes blase and boring, rote and routine. We want fire! And so does God.
Jesus doesn't want attachment without affection; friendship without fondness; devotedness without delight; fidelity without fervor; or regard without rapture.
Neither do you.
Love is not enough. Jesus wants chemistry and intensity. Fan the flame of faith and begin seeking God anew again. Enjoy His Word. Enjoy His People. Enjoy being passionate again!
Dave White, PhD, is pastor of The Bridge. thebridgescv.com

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Swap out the drugstore candy for an elevated option?
For the grown ups - and kids with a more practiced palette - explore Santa Clarita's bakeries and specialty crafters for refined holiday-basket options. French macarons (or our favorite Nothing Bundt Cakes Bundtinis) and more are just a click away.

Get the US Postal Service in on the fun?
We've always wondered why Santa seemed to be the only one who gets - and sends - letters. Mr. E. Bunny's address is more elusive, but for creative caregivers, Google is your friend. Search "Easter Bunny address" and you'll get a few options that are on Easter Island, a small locale in the southeastern Pacific Ocean that belongs to Chile. Cute stories abound online about replies - it's worth the price of a few stamps to see if you get a reply!

Give a geography lesson along with a basket of candy?
You and the kids can watch the Easter Bunny deliver treats all over the world live thanks to the online Easter Bunny Tracker found at trackeasterbunny.com.

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Don't Miss!
Farm Spring Fling & Egg Hunt at Gilchrist Farm
On April 2, 3, 9, 10 and 16, your cuties can cuddle chicks, search for eggs, ride horses and ponies, take a wagon ride and much more. Egg Hunt tickets do sell out and space is limited - log on to reserve your family's spot today. Gilchrist Farm gilchristfarm.com

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Bunnies Loves Bundts
These buttery beauties are the not-too-sweet treat that put a spring in your step - and joy on your table! Pop bundtinis in baskets or make a festive bundt your delicious centerpiece.
Nothing Bundt Cakes 291-2424