FIRST FRIDAY — RHYTHM

Ruth Haley Barton is the author of the book Sacred Rhythms: Arranging Our Lives for Spiritual Transformation. Most of us know what it is to arrange our lives around work, hobbies, and sports. What about arranging our lives so that we experience greater spiritual transformation?In her book she suggests such practices as times of solitude, daily reading of Scripture, and prayer. She also talks about self-examination and keeping a sabbath. For the past couple of years, we have been encouraging believers to set aside the first Friday of the month as a day of fasting and prayer. That call to prayer is a part of a larger prayer strategy that would unite churches in prayer for their community. That broader strategy is outlined on the Missionary Church website at mcusa.org/prayfirst/firstfridayfast.  Rhythms or spiritual disciplines are extremely important to our growth as followers of Jesus. As you look to the new year, what disciplines will you put in place that will specifically contribute to your growth in Christ? Fasting for spiritual formation does not come naturally or easily for most people, and yet it was a practice in the New Testament (Acts 13) and has been a part of the Church through the centuries. Consider marking your calendars now to set aside the first Friday of each month as a day of fasting and prayer. Consider how you might structure that day. If you are retired, perhaps you could spend a large portion of that day in solitude with the Word of God open, praying for your church, praying for your neighborhood, and praying for your city. If you are employed, consider taking your lunch break or any other breaks and spend them with the Lord. Find a quiet place to pray. You can fast from food, or social media, or TV. Make prayer and fasting a part of your spiritual rhythms in 2022.