S E E K W E E K D A Y S E V E N // S U N D A Y A U G U S T 2 7

Therefore Jesus said again, “Very truly I tell you, I am the gate for the sheep. // John 10:7

Most followers of Jesus are familiar with the word “Amen”… so familiar that sometimes we forget the power that it holds. The Hebrew word can be translated as “so be it”, “so it is”, or “may it be fulfilled”. We say this word at the end of a prayer, sermon, or statement — as an agreement. Jesus, however, often uses it at the beginning of a statement (“amen, amen I say to you” or “very truly I tell you”) in order to emphasize what he is about to say.

There is so much power available to us when we come together as a community and agree together to see the things that God has promised come to pass. It is a vital part of our formation as a community of faith that we share our hearts, testimonies, and prayers with one another and then say “so be it” as one voice. There is also power in saying “amen” as a prophetic declaration — to emphasize our faith and believe in things that have yet to unfold.

Community practice: Invite a friend to church & come to pre-service prayer

Today, we invite you to join us for pre-service prayer at The Bridge. We meet every week at 9:25 for a time of prayer and fellowship, and this week in particular we have set this time aside to thank God for all that he did during this week, to celebrate testimonies, and to pray “amen” over the things we continue to pray and believe for. Even if you’ve never joined us at this time before, we hope that you will consider coming out today to connect with others in the church, offer encouragement, and receive encouragement in return.

We also hope you will invite someone to attend our Sunday gathering with you!

Scripture: Joshua 21:45, Ezekiel 12:28, Psalm 138 MSG

Prayer: In whatever time you are able, spend time in prayer with God today, thanking him for everything he did during this week. Take your time, and pray how you feel led.

Devotional time // journaling questions:

1. What image from the suggested Scripture verses struck you today? Press in to that image and spend some time with Jesus asking why that particular moment is so important to you right now.

2. Write out your testimony of this week. What “amazing things” have you seen God do?

3. Now that Seek Week is over, how do you see yourself continuing to pursue God’s presence? Did any of the practices impact you in particular? Can you see yourself praying more regularly? Fasting occasionally? How could you move forward in God’s presence?

If you want to continue to deepen your walk with Jesus, we invite you to check out Alpha (for new believers or those with questions), participate in Rooted (a 10-week discipleship journey), or join a life group (for those who have already done Alpha and Rooted). Click on the links above to learn more, or email tracy@thebridgechino.org

May the blessings and favor of God our Father follow you into the coming season. May we see God’s Kingdom come in the Chino Valley as it is in Heaven! Amen!