READ OUT LOUD AS A GROUP: Hebrews 5:5-10; 7:1-10. Read it two or three times as a group. Use a different translation each time.

Spend 2 minutes in silent prayer. As you breathe deeply, reflect on your needs. Remember how God has provided in the past and thank Him for who He is.

After this, invite someone to close in prayer.

Q1 – Often in the American church, we try to over-rationalize God without leaving room for the mystery of God. What are some things of God that are mysteries to you? What do you struggle to understand? In what ways could he be calling you in a deeper relationship and trust? How can you cultivate deeper understanding and deeper trust in your walk with him?

Think about the state of your life, your relationships, the community, the American Church, and the world. "Sozo" is a Greek word that translates

to "save" or "salvation" in the Bible, but it carries a deeper meaning encompassing not just spiritual salvation but also healing and deliverance, signifying a complete restoration of a person's physical, emotional, and spiritual well-being. God not only has saved us, but is still saving presently, and will save and redeem it all in the future. Hold this though in your heart as you discuss the next couple prompts.

Q2 – What comes to mind and makes you think “it shouldn’t be this way”? Think personally as well as the world around you.
‍
Q3 - Have you ever prayed to be wounded or burdened by God? What came of it?

Q4 - What invitation could be in front of you to participate in God’s redemptive plan for his people and his world?

Q5 – Biblical Prayer is Authentic, Submitted, and Desperate. In which of these three do you feel the most tension or conviction in your own life? How can you practice what feels most difficult?

Closing Exercise:

Finish your time together by practicing Authentic, Submitted, and Desperate prayer in community. Give your group a few minutes to think about or journal some honest tensions or situations that they desperately need God’s intervention. You may want to hold space for silence to begin, or listen to a worship song while people contemplate. Then, invite your group to assume a prayer posture for which may be uncomfortable for them (kneeling, laying down, open handed, etc). It is okay if people are not ready to participate in that way. Ask that someone begin the prayer time, and have an identified person to close, and invite real honest prayer to God before you go.

CHALLENGE:
Over the next few weeks, we’ll prepare for Church at Home, where the entire church will be invited to practice the Sabbath together. Your challenge is to begin experimenting with Sabbath day in your own life and

within your group. Experiment with your own Sabbath rhythms—commit to intentionally practicing Sabbath at least a few times before Church at Home on Sunday, March 30th.

As you practice Sabbath, incorporate Journaling and Authentic Prayer into your time with God. Consider utilizing Psalm 126 as a scripture to help lead you into that time.

‍