The Rock Weekly – August 26, 2026

A Rhythm of Prayer Around the Altar

Last week, Pastor Andrew reflected on Hebrews 10:23–25 and gave us a phrase I have continued to think about:

“We see in this passage the overlap of personal disciplines and corporate rhythms. Our spiritual formation is personal, but it is not private.”

That is such an important distinction.

Following Jesus is deeply personal. No one else can love Him, obey Him, read His Word, or cultivate a life of prayer for us. And yet, throughout Scripture, the Lord continually gathers His people into shared rhythms of worship, prayer, remembrance, and obedience.

As Pastor Andrew reminded us, Hebrews tells us to “consider one another…not neglecting to gather together…but encouraging each other, and all the more as you see the Day approaching.” (Hebrews 10:24–25)

As the Day approaches, we do not need one another less. We need one another all the more.

We believe the Lord is inviting us as a church into a deeper corporate rhythm of prayer in this season.  Not simply more prayer meetings, but a people learning to punctuate our days with prayer—intentionally turning our attention to Jesus together.

This kind of shared rhythm has always been near the heart of God.  In Exodus 29, the Lord established a morning and evening altar and attached an astonishing promise to that rhythm: “There I will meet with the people of Israel.” The day was to be bookended by the presence of God!

And after the Spirit was poured out in Acts 2, the early church did not simply experience a powerful moment—they entered a shared way of life. “They devoted themselves” to the apostles’ teaching, fellowship, breaking of bread, and prayer, gathering together day by day.” (Acts 2:42–47)

The presence of God gave rise to a people with shared rhythms around His presence.

What might happen if, together as a church family, we began learning to stop in the morning, at noon, and in the evening—wherever we are—and intentionally turn our attention to Jesus?

To remember who He is.

To listen to His Word.

To ask Him to do what He has promised.

To offer ourselves again to Him in loving obedience.

Over the coming weeks, we will share more about what we believe the Lord is inviting us into together this fall.

For now, will you join us in asking:

“Lord, teach us to become a praying people—gathering together around Your presence and continually turning our attention to Jesus as we see the Day approaching.”

Maranatha,
Pastor Matt and your Rock Staff

 

 

IMPORTANT SERVICE & WEEKLY INFORMATION:

WEDNESDAY NIGHT WORSHIP & PRAYER SERVICE  7:00pm *Children’s Ministry available*
Facebook Live:  https://www.facebook.com/rockchurchco
The Rock Online Livestream:  https://www.therock.org/live/

 

FOUNDATIONS CLASS – 6:00pm Wednesdays through 9/23
Zoom link: https://zoom.us/j/99757846764?pwd=Tm8zQ0JQWk1xeHFBcEU5anNFN1l4dz09

 

YOUTH ~ ABIDE YOUTH (6th – 12th Grade) – WEDNESDAY NIGHT – 7:00pm
Invite a friend and come have a great time. If you have any questions, email jaden@therock.org

 

FOOD BANK DISTRIBUTION – 1st & 3rd Saturday of each Month
https://www.therock.org/foodbank/
Email Lindy@therock.org if you would like to volunteer or have questions.

 

SUNDAY PRE-SERVICE PRAYER & COMMUNION – 8:15am
In the Prayer Room (behind the Sanctuary). All are welcome.

 

SUNDAY MORNING SERVICE – 9:45am  *In-Person & On-line*
           Facebook Live:  https://www.facebook.com/rockchurchco
The Rock Online Livestream:  https://www.therock.org/live/

 

OPPORTUNITIES TO GIVE  Here are some ways you can partner with The Rock as you practice generosity – our regular tithe/giving, compassion help, missions, and our food bank.  Click on the following link or graphic.  www.therock.org/give

 

Have a Question, Need Prayer, Help, Feel Alone, or Disconnected?

Please email us at family@therock.org and put QUESTION, PRAYER, NEED HELP, or CONNECT ME at the top of your email.