Hungry for the Hurting

Timberview’s own prayer journal helps the congregation during its annual month-long focus on prayer.

Every May at Timberview Christian Fellowship (Mead, WA), there’s only one thing on the menu, and that’s prayer. Out of this strong inward focus, according to Pastor Matt Thomas, comes an equally intense outward focus — on people and their needs. The church is heavily involved in social services, ministering in 11 countries and locally this past summer alone. “Our people have a vibrant heart for the Lord,” says Thomas.

Life transformation begins afresh with Timberview’s annual focus on prayer. Miracles and healings occur; some become bold about sharing the gospel; others are set free from a critical spirit. The sweetness of unity pervades the body. Using contributions from people in the church, Thomas compiles a daily devotional booklet for the month, in which “real” people (with kids, jobs, etc.) share about real-life struggles and how prayer helps. The church sets up a prayer labyrinth; services include prayer at the altar and prayer-centered testimonies. Small groups take a break from other studies to focus on prayer. “Spontaneous ministry flows from this month-long focus,” says Thomas, “and we become hungry for the hurting.

Paula centers on prayer using a finger labyrinth.

“Ours is a very giving church,” he adds. Ongoing ministries include outreach to prisoners, homeless youth and adults, and assistance through pantries and soup kitchens. A team is headed to Australia to help plant the country’s first FM church; many are getting their feet wet helping with a plant underway in Coeur d’Alene, Idaho. Some 50 are involved in worship ministry; 60 percent or more of the 500 “regulars” are serving directly through the church or other community ministries and programs. Even the younger folks are on fire — through Digging Deeper, for example, where 5th and 6th graders make a two-year commitment to discover how to live life with God, through Bible study and memorization, witnessing and spiritual retreats.

Timberview’s mission statement sums it up well: Christ our Passion, Christlikeness our Pursuit, Christ’s Commission our Purpose. “We’re striking a chord of intimacy with the Lord,” says Thomas. Those who are hurting are hearing the song.