5 practices in weekly rhythm

Gathering on Sundays and hosting special events are an essential part of who we will be as Lakeside-Orangevale, but not everything. It is also vital that we begin forming ourselves as a community, seeking to follow Jesus and eager to further God's kingdom in Orangevale and beyond.

Consider adopting these five practices. Make them a part of your daily and weekly routine. It is a great way for us to intentionally make choices and take actions that shape us and give us a common life (and language) as a community.

Here they are, five practices in weekly rhythm:
BLESS –We seek God’s blessing and pass that blessing on to others. Every week seek to intentionally bless two people -- one person from within the Lakeside-Orangevale believing community and one beyond it. This could take the form of an encouraging e-mail or note, a phone call, a gift, or an act of kindness, or donation to a cause or charity. Be creative!

EAT – Sharing food has always been central to the shared life of community. Attempt to eat with someone that we don’t live with every week. This might be a full meal or even just a cup of coffee.

LISTEN – We believe that God is capable of speaking to us. We try to be attentive to his voice, wherever and whenever he speaks. Seek to develop a practice of listening by taking time, at least once each week, to listen to God’s voice. This might take the form of a prayer walk, listening to music, or meditation on scripture.

LEARN – We desire to take on the image of God as seen in Jesus and to participate in his plan. We seek out knowledge about God to help us do this. We seek to develop a discipline of studying the Scriptures, reading other literature or listening to teaching that gives insight into God and his plan. Don't know where to start? Start with Jesus -- the Gospel of Mark.

SENT – We are a visual portrayal of Jesus to the world. We remind ourselves regularly that we are on-mission, sent to participate in God’s activity in the world. We intentionally look for ways in which our daily routines are expressions of God’s calling on our lives.

Invite your friends into this as well! Anytime we gather let's ask each other how it's going. Encourage. Spur one another on.
'Gleaned' from www.smallboatbigsea.org