# data[].attributes.body
As I reflected on the themes of prayer each day, I tried to take time to write from that place of meditation. I wrote this on Monday evening out of the topics for the day: 1) confession and repentance, 2) rest. “Slow” was another word in the mix. From that place the first lines of this came to me, and I let it grow from there unsure of how they may come together. When I finished and saw how it was all brought into one, it felt sacred, because I did not see the full picture as I began. Holy Spirit with me did. How humbling that we have the opportunity to create with the Creator?! I am not quick to share things that I write, but as Lindsay opened the testimony time today in service, she commented on awakening to snow today. This piece came back to me, written before any snow was forecast for our cold January days. How beautiful to end the fast this way. Reflecting on what this week has brought, at least for me: through resting, confession, and repentance. May we carry these forth beyond the fast and surrender to the day-by-day process before us.

Day 1 Reflections:

Silent falling

With a gentle land

So unpresuming on its arrival

Humble even as I gaze

Through my iron wrought window

It doesn’t come with loud trumpet

Or in any sort of flood

But little by little

It slows the whole world down

Hostage to its understated authority

That beckons us to rest

To enjoy

To reflect (as it does)

To stay

To watch

As it turns our world with its

Uneven paths

Dirt, dilapidation

All to white

Pristine white

Equally subject to its authority

Equally blanketed by its grace

We are all covered by

This graceful transformation

Broken, weary hearts meet

New mercies every morning

As weak surrender -

Genuine repentance

# data[].attributes.body
When fasting I journal and review old journal posts. Here is one I uncovered yesterday that you may find beneficial. ~Rhonda J. Smith

# data[].attributes.body
I found this 5-day bible plan very helpful during this time of rest. Sharing in case it speaks to someone else! -Lyndsay

# data[].attributes.body
Supplies:

A device to play rippling water sounds

Soft blanket or cushy rug to sit on

Bible

Optional: cotton balls, paper, and glue

Prayer:

Turn on rippling water sounds on Spotify or Youtube.  Find a soft blanket or cushy rug to sit on.  Slowly read Psalm 23.  Imagine what it would be like to be a sheep living outside.  What kind of shepherd is American culture?  How has your soul and your life been led and guided by the culture?  Has it left you nourished, rested, healthy, defended, comforted, or lavished you with abundance and mercy?  How does Jesus, the Good Shepherd, care for us differently than the culture?

(If you have children at home, you can invite them to create their own fluffy sheep using cotton balls and glue on paper.  While doing so, ask them what kind of Shepherd they think Jesus must be.)

# data[].attributes.body
So grateful for this morning's prayer call and that "Good morning, Jesus!" energy...  I am expectant today, eagerly anticipating God's communications whatever form these may take. 💕 - Tammie Jones

# data[].attributes.body
Who is Jesus?

- The Owen fam

# data[].attributes.body
This song helped to keep me lifted on "humpday." - Tammie

# data[].attributes.body
I had an opportunity to bundle up and enjoy the Detroit riverfront this afternoon. More photos to appear on IG after the fast. 🤣 -Tammie Jones

# data[].attributes.body
🎶 We don't get to see the whole picture

We don't get to see the whole thing

We just get a glimpse of the moment, the promise, the future

And not the in-betweens 🎶

https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=WcY9DJMFM20

# data[].attributes.body
Supplies:

Backpack or market bag

Heavy items from the kitchen pantry… cans of food, sack of flour, jars of soap… whatever you have on hand.

Prayer:

Fill the backpack with heavy items you can find in the kitchen pantry.  Put the bag on your shoulders as you begin to pray.  How long is it before the weight of the bag becomes an uncomfortable distraction?  Slowly remove an item from the bag. As you pull it out, name something in your life that feels heavy or burdensome.  As you set the item on the ground, imagine setting it at the foot ofthe cross and give that worry or care to Jesus.  Repeat until the bag is empty.  If you get stuck, ask the Holy Spirit to show you what unnecessary burdens you are carrying that are really His to carry.

# data[].attributes.headline
"Breathe" - A song the for the grieving ones

# data[].attributes.subject
"Breathe" - A song the for the grieving ones

# data[].attributes.body
During Covid-19 I wrote a song to comfort those who were mourning the deaths of their loved ones. So many could not get to the hospital rooms to have final moments. This song was written to help them/us process these losses. We prayed this morning for those who are mourning. If this is you, please be encouraged by this song. Thanks to Christa Joi for helping produce it!

# data[].attributes.body
As we approach the starting line of renewal, let's take the beautiful testimonies, messages from God, and the blessing He had given, is giving, and will continue to give.

ENTER HIS REST! (Hebrews 4:9-11a (NLT), So there is a special rest still waiting for the people of God. For all who have entered God's rest have rested from their labors, just as God did after creating the world. So let us do our best to enter that rest.)

Love you all! Myra Marie

# data[].attributes.body
You don’t need a 100 “good” reasons. You just need one good one: “God said...”

# data[].attributes.headline
Encouragement in the power of our All Mighty God . Believe…For He is able!!!!

# data[].attributes.subject
Encouragement in the power of our All Mighty God . Believe…For He is able!!!!

# data[].attributes.body
https://youtu.be/QRD1Ohs9jUM

# data[].attributes.headline
"Don't worry about ANYTHING, instead pray about EVERYTHING. Tell God what you need and thank him for all he has done. Then you will experience God's peace, which exceeds anything we can understand. His peace will guard your hearts and minds as you live in Christ Jesus."                                 Carrying Philippians 4:6-7 with me today!~Aletra~

# data[].attributes.subject
"Don't worry about ANYTHING, instead pray about EVERYTHING. Tell God what you need and thank him for all he has done. Then you will experience God's peace, which exceeds anything we can understand. His peace will guard your hearts and minds as you live in Christ Jesus."                                 Carrying Philippians 4:6-7 with me today!~Aletra~

# data[].attributes.headline
God loves you period! - Desiree Johnson (posted by Gbenga)

# data[].attributes.subject
God loves you period! - Desiree Johnson (posted by Gbenga)

# data[].attributes.body
Waiting on the Lord is not a twiddling-your-thumbs-kind of waiting.  Waiting is a profession actually, and the best waiters are the ones who are attentive at all times.  They notice your cup is empty before you do, and they see you fiddling with the dessert menu from all the way across the dining hall.  On a busy night, they don’t rely strictly on their memory, but they keep a pen and pad in hand to take down your specific requests.  Today, as you sit down to wait on God, imagine yourself as a waiter.  Bring a pad and paper and be ready to take notes.  If you own an apron, go put it on and wear it during your prayer time.  It may sound silly, but the action might help you remember to stay attentive to the One you are serving.

# data[].attributes.body
Most of us are really good at distracted waiting.  While food’s warming up in the microwave, we are checking text messages.  Standing in line at the post office, we are scrolling through Instagram.  On hold with the insurance company, we’re answering a few emails. Yet, the kind of waiting God invites us to is attentive waiting.  WHAT IF, every single time you find yourself waiting on a family member, driving, or standing in line somewhere today, instead of reaching for your phone or the radio station button, you consciously turned your attention to God and quietly in your heart just said, “What’s up Lord?”

# data[].attributes.body
JUST HANDS

Supplies:

Paper

Scissors

Pen

Bible

Trace your hand on a piece of paper.  Cut it out.  Read Isaiah 56:1-2.  Are there any ways that you have neglected justice and righteousness or disrespected God’s set apart day?  Write these things on your paper hand.  Now ask the Holy Spirit to show you how you can use your hands to do good, be fair and just, and honor His desires on the Sabbath.  Flip the paper hand over and write your commitment to righteousness on the other side.  Hang the hand, commitment side up, in a place you will often see.

# data[].attributes.body
I wanted to be creative and had the goal of starting a song. Please listen and add to it!

One of the areas that I am praying earnestly for this year is for a breakthrough in my songwriting and releasing. I have so many unfinished songs. Sometimes the songs and arrangements that I receive from God are too complex for me to sing or play. But I am so humbled that he shares them with me. I hope to find the people who want to sing these songs. Please pray for a breakthrough in this area for me, for His glory!

-Dele

# data[].attributes.body
Worshipping this morning

# data[].attributes.headline
Great is Your Faithfulness! (Lamentations 3:22-24a)

# data[].attributes.subject
Great is Your Faithfulness! (Lamentations 3:22-24a)

# data[].attributes.body
22 The steadfast love of the Lord never ceases;
his mercies never come to an end;
23 they are new

every morning;
great is your faithfulness.
24 “The

Lord is my portion,” says my soul,
“therefore I will HOPE in him.”

LORD our hope is in You! Our hope for our communities, our hope for our local body, our hope for the global body, ALL OF OUR HOPE IS IN YOU! When we forget or become shaken by the activity of outside forces or even the assault of our own flesh rebelling against us, help us to remember that YOU are our portion! Your mercy for us is new every morning, your grace follows us and you will NEVER stop being faithful to us, Your people! Let HOPE shine with brightness in the middle of hopelessness  and may it bring light to the eyes of all who gaze upon You, our very present hope, Jesus. Amen!

-Christa

# data[].attributes.headline
Prayer For Hope Village (Dexter/Fenkell)

# data[].attributes.subject
Prayer For Hope Village (Dexter/Fenkell)

# data[].attributes.body
Father, we pray that the eyes of our heart may be enlightened in order that we may know the hope to which You have called us, the riches of Your glorious inheritance in us Your holy people, right here in Hope Village. Amen.

# data[].attributes.headline
2 Samuel 6:14 and Psalm 150:4                                   I spent the day thinking about what "art" I could create for Jesus as a I meditate on his presence. After my time in prayer today, I heard so clearly that my art today was dance. I asked the Holy Spirit to move through me and to except my "art". Worship through the art of dance has always taken me to another place and has given me the peace I need when life gets tough! I had an amazing time creating my art today!~Aletra~

# data[].attributes.subject
2 Samuel 6:14 and Psalm 150:4                                   I spent the day thinking about what "art" I could create for Jesus as a I meditate on his presence. After my time in prayer today, I heard so clearly that my art today was dance. I asked the Holy Spirit to move through me and to except my "art". Worship through the art of dance has always taken me to another place and has given me the peace I need when life gets tough! I had an amazing time creating my art today!~Aletra~

# data[].attributes.attachment_caption
Thank you Father for granting me the peace to not only show myself kindness today but to show it to my student . Continue to grant me the peace I need to serve.

# data[].attributes.body
Jesus, you light my path with wonder
Your love fills my heart with longing
Teach me how to live in delight

# data[].attributes.headline
❤❤❤ ALL THESE WONDERFUL BOOKS!!!! ❤❤❤ Thanks for sharing Guys!

# data[].attributes.subject
❤❤❤ ALL THESE WONDERFUL BOOKS!!!! ❤❤❤ Thanks for sharing Guys!

# data[].attributes.body
-Sherri Watson

# data[].attributes.body
This morning we are creating a treasure map of our neighborhood. We know that every single person is a treasure to God's heart, "but," Zakai said, "not everyone knows they are God's treasure." The boys are drawing houses, streets, stars and names. We are praying for each neighbor we know by name, praying that we would find more treasures (meet more neighbors), and that the Holy Spirit would give us opportunity and boldness to share the Best Treasure of ALL (Jesus) with each.
-Hamby's

# data[].attributes.body
Hebrews 7:25 (NIV)

Therefore he is able to save completely those who come to God through him, because he always lives to intercede for them

Whose salvation are you interceding with Jesus for today?

# data[].attributes.body
We were given this wonderful book of Isaiah for Christmas. Each of the chapters is interspersed with art. I am reading "analog" this week during the fast and it's beautiful.

Don

# data[].attributes.headline
Psalms 16: 7-8 is one of my daily prayers this week. I will have comfort in knowing that he is right beside me. Part of my resting this week is to stop trying to figure things out in my life, when God has already worked everything out in my life. I except his peace, knowing that he is in control of everything!~Aletra~

# data[].attributes.subject
Psalms 16: 7-8 is one of my daily prayers this week. I will have comfort in knowing that he is right beside me. Part of my resting this week is to stop trying to figure things out in my life, when God has already worked everything out in my life. I except his peace, knowing that he is in control of everything!~Aletra~

# data[].attributes.body
Over the last week, I have been struck by how fitting it is to begin our week of fasting on the day commemorating what would have been Dr. King’s 93rd birthday.  Specifically striking today has been the context of Amos 5, which leads up to the lines made most famous to most Americans by Dr. King’s speech.  I recall a sermon I heard nearly 15 years ago identifying Amos 5:21-23 where God rejects his people’s sacrifice: their festivals, their burnt memorials, their offerings, and even their worship.  Instead God declared: ‬‬“But let justice roll out like waters, And righteousness like an ever-flowing stream” (Amos‬ ‭5:24‬ ‭NASB).  Elsewhere: “For I desire steadfast love (mercy) and not sacrifice, the knowledge of God rather than burnt offerings” (Hosea 6:6 ESV, Matt 19:3).

In this time of our congregational and unified sacrifice, resetting to remain in his rest, I am struck by the call to live lives of justice and righteousness: where he is the center; he is the vine and we are the branches; and he is the source that we may be his tributaries.  Where he is our entire focus, and that focus necessitates and calls forth tangible manifestation in our lives and the world around us.  Where giving him our all because he gave himself for us can be done from rest and unto the glory of God.  Where love compels action.  Where justice is an active, relentless pursuit coming from the heart of God and is the restoration of all things.  Where the cry deep from the heart of God manifests:  “Prepare the way of the LORD; Make straight in the desert A highway for our God. Every valley shall be exalted And every mountain and hill brought low; The crooked places shall be made straight And the rough places smooth; The glory of the LORD shall be revealed, And all flesh shall see it together; For the mouth of the LORD has spoken” (Isaiah 40:3-5 NASB).

-Martin

# data[].attributes.body
Today, my flesh was acting up!!! I was hungry long before usual, and I very quickly realized just how accustomed to social media scrolling I have become as my muscle memory sought to find app shortcuts that are no longer there. But in my moment of doubt and hanger, I reminded myself that we should "count it all joy" (per James 1:2-4) and turned up my worship music. Grateful for the tools that have been provided, as I cleaned my window for the first time in a loooong while and then took to the dry erase marker with my questions. Throughout the day as my mind would wander, these would fall in my line of sight prompting me to seek Christ in the moment. Also I so appreciate the time we've spent in prayer together. I have found so much community through prayer at Detroit Church. 💕
Tammie Jones

# data[].attributes.body
God provide not just rest, but a place that rest is had! It a blessing to see y’all today.

# data[].attributes.body
I’m grateful that God reminds me that in my weakness, I am made strong in Him. His grace is sufficient. As I’ve struggled to give Him all my cares and have worried about the details of life that don’t concern me, He whispers “I’ve given you this promise now trust me with it”.

Erika Dudley

# data[].attributes.body
🙏🏽 Lord, help me to run to You with my sin. Not away. Help me to be brutally honest and vulnerable with You. Not trying to hide my sin or run away from You. But to run to You. Your love is unchanging. And even Your discipline when needed is good. 🙏🏽

# data[].attributes.body
Today we invite you to pull out whatever art supplies you have on hand… it can be as simple as a few sharpies and a scratch piece of paper.  Or if you’re feeling fancy, bust out a canvas and paints or whip up a quick batch of homemade playdough.

Spread out your supplies and allow yourself the space you may not normally take in everyday life to create as you meditate on God’s Presence.  Don’t worry about how perfect your end result may look - it’s your engagement and your authenticity that will bless the Lord’s heart.

# data[].attributes.body
Hey fam! It's Ryan, it's a kindle book so I'm sharing a screenshot.

# data[].attributes.body
I realize I struggle Father with change. I also have an increase in anxiety that I’ve never had before. I desperately need to be filled with more of you and less of myself and my own thoughts. As I fast this week, allow me to recognize and accept that YOU are bigger than all that has me anxious.

-Vita 💜

# data[].attributes.attachment_caption
This week, I will seek God’s face for guidance, follow through on instruction, and stop allowing fear and anxiety to hinder my progress. 

# data[].attributes.headline
2 Timothy‬ ‭1:7‬ ‭ESV‬‬ Fear is not from God

# data[].attributes.subject
2 Timothy‬ ‭1:7‬ ‭ESV‬‬ Fear is not from God

# data[].attributes.body
“for God gave us a spirit not of fear but of power and love and self-control.”
‭‭2 Timothy‬ ‭1:7‬ ‭ESV‬‬

# data[].attributes.body
Praying for our church family by name today!

-Meg

# data[].attributes.body
This song was playing when I started to read about God, the father.

-DeLe

# data[].attributes.body
I know that I have had trouble with the "father" concept. I often have doubts and suspicions of many earthly fathers motives. LORD, Thank you for the restorative work you have done and are doing in me and my earthly dad's relationship and in how I see You, the ultimate Father. I know there is more work to do in my heart. I am sorry for being suspicious of you. Please help me to trust in who you really are not who I've made you to be.

-Dele

# data[].attributes.body
I’m so grateful for all the resources the Prayer Ministry has given to us. I love having tools at my disposal to make my time of fasting rich and meaningful. I know that some may be overwhelmed with all that is available. I just believe God wants each of us to know that He will guide us with what to use, and we don’t have to be overwhelmed by the abundance of resources available to us. —Rhonda J. Smith

# data[].attributes.body
Today God, I confess that I am a scorekeeper. That although Your tremendous grace has been extended to me throughout my life and that although there exists for me new mercy every sing morning, that hour by hour I willingly choose the twisted comfort of judgement.  I acknowledge that this is my fallen state and that I need help to even want to be different. I am the older brother,  at home with my Father and yet ignorant of how good He really is.  All that is his is mine, and yet I stand arms crossed, heart cold, calculating what I deserve and what my siblings deserve.
-Lindsay

# data[].attributes.body
Use a dry erase marker to draw a large question mark on your window.  What questions do you have for God this week?  Write your questions on the window, and each time you see the light shining through the window, ask God to shine His light on your heart as you wait on Him this week.

He may not answer your questions in the exact way you imagine - Jesus was sort of famous for answering questions with His own questions!  But He does promise to be found by those who seek Him with all their hearts. (Jeremiah 29:13)

If you don’t have dry erase markers on hand, you could tape a piece of paper to your window and write on that instead.

# data[].attributes.body
I am so excited to begin the fast today! My soul longs for God, for the living God...(Psalm 42:1-2) Lead us all O LORD and awaken our hearts to WHO You are and WHAT you're saying and doing. Amen!!

# data[].attributes.headline
I am ready now more than ever to fast this week. I have lots of questions for God and I know that he can handle them. God has been dealing with me with several things and I am excited for him to reveal himself this week through this fast. While I don't have a particular book I'll be reading this week (yet) I am planning to journal double time this week. I even bought a new journal for the fast! ~Aletra~

# data[].attributes.subject
I am ready now more than ever to fast this week. I have lots of questions for God and I know that he can handle them. God has been dealing with me with several things and I am excited for him to reveal himself this week through this fast. While I don't have a particular book I'll be reading this week (yet) I am planning to journal double time this week. I even bought a new journal for the fast! ~Aletra~

# data[].attributes.body
The main point for giving things up all week is so that there is MORE ROOM for PRAYER!   In this column, share which book you plan to read in God's word this week. Snap a picture of other books you plan to read.  Share your favorite worship playlist or prayer app.  Let's not focus only on what is being surrendered and sacrificed. What good and beautiful and righteous things are going to fill our hours and time instead?
-Lindsay

# data[].attributes.body
I plan to engage these books this week.-Rhonda J. Smith

# data[].attributes.body
Inspired by you all, I plan to spend part of my fast reading this! (It looks a little dense to be honest, but I'm aiming to push through 35 pages a day.)

# data[].attributes.body
My name is Achsha and I joined Detroir Church on the very first Sunday I visited, January 5, 2020. I had been praying for a church home and promised God that when I found one that I would be active and pay my tithes.

By God's grace, I have been able to do both of those things and a resource that helped me to understand the principles and importance was The Blessed Life by Robert Morris.

During our fast, I am reading God & Money, a book that Lindsay Hamby suggested to our D Group. I am excited to see what God is going to do in all areas of my life during this fast but particularly in the areas of giving ans stewardship.

# data[].attributes.body
Yo! This is Christa Cuffie here! I plan on reading this book as we prepare to come together as a body and go after God in fasting! My pops gave me this early last year and I feel like I need it now more than ever. Love yall!

# data[].attributes.attachment_caption
books I’ve been reading while fasting some I’ve read before others new 

# data[].attributes.body
DeLean ✌🏾