For six weeks we’ll focus on six identities and corresponding rhythms that we embody as believers as displayed in Scripture. We’ll discover how Who God Is and What God Has Done leads to Who We Are and How We Live. These identities are central in our Karis vision.

We’ll hear the sermon preached each Sunday, and then discuss more in our MCs during the week. Will you also join us in fasting and praying one day each of these six weeks? We suggest choosing one meal the same day your MC or DNA group meets. Below you’ll find the six-week plan, some questions to think through, and some guidance on how to fast and pray from Pastor Jeff.

Week One (September 11th)

Mark 3:13-19

Our Identity: Learners

Rhythm to Practice: Listening

Week Two (September 18th)

John 4:23-24

Our Identity: Worshippers

Rhythm to Practice: Celebrating

Week Three (September 25th)

Mark 3:31-35

Our Identity: Family

Rhythm to Practice: Eating

Week Four (October 2nd)

Mark 10:35-45

Our Identity: Servants

Rhythm to Practice: Giving

Week Five (October 9th)

Acts 26:12-23

Our Identity: Storytellers

Rhythm to Practice: Sharing

Week Six (October 16th)

Jeremiah 29:4-7

Our Identity: Peacemakers

Rhythm to Practice: Blessing

• What does the passage reveal about the four big questions: Who is God, what has He done, who are we, and how should we live?

• What would it look like if you embodied this identity and rhythm?

• How can we encourage one another in this direction?

Fasting

Below are some suggestions on preparing for each day of prayer and fasting as well as a guide for the day.  Remember, these are just suggestions.  Don’t get hung up on any particular aspect of the day.  The important thing is that we’re seeking the Lord together as a church family. Wondering why we fast at all? Read this past blog post from Pastor Jeff!

IN PREPARATION FOR THE DAY

• Make a plan before you go to bed the night before.

  • How will you fast the following day?  What meal(s) will you skip?  If skipping meals isn’t safe or best for you, what else can you fast from – social media, streaming, your phone, etc.?  Plan to set aside the time you would normally spend eating to spend with the Lord.  Aim for one or two dedicated blocks of time throughout the day.

  • If you’re married, talk with your spouse about your plans.  If you have kids, consider trading off during normal meal times to allow the other spouse space and time to spend with the Lord.

• Don’t load up on food the day before to “make up” for the food you’ll miss out on while fasting.  That’s actually worse for your body.  But do be sure to drink plenty of water throughout the day of fasting!

A GUIDE FOR THE DAY

At the start of the day:

• Pray and set aside this day to the Lord.

• Remind yourself of the gospel, that you have been adopted into God’s family because of Jesus, and you have nothing to prove to God – even as you fast today.

Outside of meal times:

• As you go throughout the day and you feel the physical sensation of hunger, let that prompt you to pray.

• Pray for God to give you the same kind of spiritual hunger for him.

• Pray for God to do the same kind of work in the lives of your brothers and sisters in Christ.

During normal meal times:

• Instead of sitting down to eat physical food, grab your Bible and feast on God and his Word.

• Use the weekly passage listed above to lead you through time with the Lord. Ask God for understanding of his Word, praising him for his wisdom and beauty. Ask for repentance where you fall short, and ask the Spirit to guide you in obedience.

At the end of the day:

• Join together with your MC or DNA Group for your regular gathering and pray together through the week’s verses and theme.