As we step into a new year, we are called to embark on a transformative journey with Jesus at the centre. This year, our focus is on “Practicing the Way,” a concept drawn from Romans 12:1-2, which challenges us to offer our lives as living sacrifices, holy and pleasing to God. This is described as our true and proper worship—a life lived intentionally in response to God’s mercy. But what does this look like in practice?
Worship is far more than singing songs on a Sunday morning; it is a whole-life response. Romans 12 urges us to understand that every action, thought, and decision can be an act of worship. Whether at work, at home, or in community, we are invited to align our lives with God’s purpose. Paul’s words also carry a caution: do not conform to the patterns of this world. Instead, we are called to be transformed by the renewing of our minds—a transformation that invites us to live distinctly and intentionally.
At the heart of this year-long exploration are three key concepts: Formation, Apprenticeship, and Practices. Each one builds upon the other, offering a holistic vision for spiritual growth.
Formation
Formation is not unique to Christianity; it is a universal human experience. Every day, we are being shaped—formed—by the environments we inhabit, the people we interact with, and the choices we make. Whether we realise it or not, our habits, relationships, and cultural influences are constantly moulding us.
However, much of this formation happens passively. Without intentionality, we risk being shaped by values and narratives that are misaligned with God’s Kingdom. The call of Romans 12:2 to “be transformed by the renewing of your mind” invites us to shift from passive formation to intentional spiritual formation. This requires reflection: Who or what is forming you? Who are you becoming?
Apprenticeship
Jesus’ invitation to “Come, follow me” is central to the concept of apprenticeship. In first-century Jewish culture, rabbis chose disciples who would immerse themselves in the rabbi’s teachings, emulate their way of life, and carry on their practices. Jesus extends this same invitation to us, calling us to be with Him, become like Him, and do as He did.
Apprenticeship is more than identifying as a Christian; it’s a call to live as Jesus lived. Dallas Willard famously stated, “The greatest issue facing the world today…is whether those who are identified as Christians will become disciples, students, apprentices, practitioners of Jesus Christ.” This is a powerful reminder that the world’s transformation hinges on whether we, as followers of Jesus, live out our faith in every sphere of life.
Practices
While the vision of formation and apprenticeship can feel daunting, practices provide practical steps to help us align our lives with Jesus’ way. This year, we will explore nine specific practices: Sabbath, solitude, prayer, community, Scripture, fasting, generosity, service, and witness. Each practice serves as a “trellis” supporting the growth of our spiritual lives, creating space for God’s transformative work.
Practices are not about adding burdens to our lives; they are about intentionality. Often, spiritual growth requires subtraction—removing distractions and unhelpful rhythms to make space for what truly matters. Whether it’s setting aside time for prayer, cultivating a rhythm of Sabbath rest, or engaging in acts of service, these practices are invitations to experience the abundant life Jesus promises in John 10:10.
Flourishing for Jersey
The vision for this journey is rooted in the flourishing of our community. As Freedom Church, we long to see lives transformed, relationships restored, and our island thriving under the Lordship of Jesus. Practicing the Way offers a tangible framework for living out this vision. It’s about becoming a community marked by peace, generosity, and love in a culture often characterised by hurry, consumerism, and division.
John Mark Comer, whose teachings underpin much of this journey, beautifully describes the potential of such a community. Through practices like Sabbath and solitude, we can become a community of rest in a culture of exhaustion. Through fasting and generosity, we can reflect holiness and contentment in a culture of indulgence. These are not merely ideals; they are practical ways to embody God’s Kingdom in our daily lives.
Next Steps
Where do we begin? Start with reflection. Take time this week to honestly assess your current formation. What influences are shaping you? Are they drawing you closer to Jesus or further away? Tools like the formation audit on Practicing the Way‘s website can offer helpful prompts for self-reflection.
Secondly, engage with resources. The book Practicing the Way by John Mark Comer is an excellent guide for this journey. Whether you prefer to read, listen to an audiobook, or explore free online resources, let these tools inspire and equip you.
Finally, lean into community. Join a Group, attend gatherings, or simply have conversations with others about your spiritual journey. Growth often happens in the context of relationships, where we can encourage and challenge one another.
This year is an invitation to intentionality. Transformation is possible, but it requires our participation. As we commit to Practicing the Way, may we discover the abundant life Jesus offers and become a community that flourishes for the glory of God and the good of Jersey.
