The Rhythm of Life
By grace Jesus Christ invites us into a radically new way of life - the life of the kingdom - but this requires practice. We have to learn new habits, new rhythms, an entirely new language. For hundreds of years, Christians in various traditions have entered into the life of the kingdom through certain daily, weekly, and monthly practices such as prayer and fasting, solitude and silence, communion and confession, sacrifice and service. For a deeper look at our Rhythm of Life we encourage your to read our Rhythm of Life booklet.
Daily Practices
Morning Prayer and/or Evening Prayer
Strive for 20 minutes, once a day
Resources to help you get started: The Lord’s Prayer, The Lord's Prayer (BONUS!), Prayer of Examen, Lectio Divina
Scripture Reading
We follow a two-year Bible reading plan together as a community
We encourage a regular time of reading the Gospels (Matthew, Mark, Luke, John)
We also read along with How to Read the Bible Book by Book by Gordon Fee
Bible reading resources: www.bible.com, www.thebibleproject.com (great introductory videos for each book of the Bible), www.readscripture.org (app),
Weekly Practices
Regular Exercise
2-4 times per week, minimum of 30 minutes each
Sabbath Rest
Once a week for a 24 Hour Period
Bless One Another
Bless one person this week
Alternate between someone within and outside of the church
Resources to help you get started: The Art of Neighboring by Jay Pathak
Surprise the World by Michael Frost
Sunday Gatherings and Micro Churches
A time to practice and rehearse what it means to be the people of God
Share a Meal
Eat with one person this week
Alternate between someone within and outside of the church
Be intentional about including people who don't look like you
Monthly Practices
Fasting
From food and social media for one 24 hour period
Our community fasts and prays the third Thursday of every month
Ministry Teams
Serving the body of Christ
GIving
Giving regularly, sacrificially, generously, and joyfully
Regular Date Night
For those who are married
Justice
In your current context, where can you steward the work of God for the good of others?
This can be small or large, local or global, solo or with others
Obedience (your deep "Yes" to God)
What is the seasonal task you feel called to?
What has God placed in your hands to be faithful with?
How do you embody Christ outwardly?
How does your faith find expression in the world?
Annual Practices
Solitude Retreat
For at least one 24 hour period
Retreat centers: www.franciscanretreatcenter.org, www.sacredheartretreat.org, www.hideawayreservations.com
Missions Trip
Serving our world
Next Steps
Baptism & Holy Communion
Visible symbols of invisible grace