Today was an interesting day. My family and I visited a church I had been hopeful about, but the experience was nothing like I had anticipated. There was minimal prayer, no altar call, and no real message. Instead, the church building was filled with children in Halloween costumes, with the Wobble line-dancing song playing over the loudspeakers. I left reflecting on the difference between what I had hoped to encounter and what I actually experienced. It took me back to 2021, the last time I regularly attended church. Whenever I left feeling confused, sensing that something was missing, I would open my Bible, and time and time again, I would find myself in Acts 2. “And they were all with one accord in one place. And suddenly there came a sound from heaven as of a rushing mighty wind, and it filled all the house where they were sitting.” — Acts 2:1–2 (KJV) The Holy Spirit filled the room. Tongues of fire appeared, the disciples were filled with the Holy Ghost and began speaking in other tongues, and what followed was a powerful demonstration of God's presence. Miracles, signs, and wonders accompanied the birth of the Church, and about three thousand souls were added to the Kingdom that day (Acts 2:3–4, 41–43). The Lord would repeatedly bring me back to the same reminder: “Remember the book of Acts, Shaamya.” I began to understand that what I longed to experience was not simply a church service, a building, or a religious routine. My heart was longing to see the body of Christ walking in the fullness of what Jesus made available through His finished work. The book of Acts is not just a record of what happened then. It reveals the life of a Spirit-filled Church empowered to be witnesses of Jesus Christ. Today reminded me to remain anchored in what God has placed in my heart. “And they continued stedfastly in the apostles' doctrine and fellowship, and in breaking of bread, and in prayers.” — Acts 2:42 (KJV) Reflective Question When you gather with other believers, are you simply looking for a church experience, or are you hungry to see the fullness of the Holy Spirit, the Word of God, and the power of His Kingdom demonstrated in the body of Christ?

Father, You order our steps, and we walk in the good works You have prepared for us. We are fruitful in every good work, growing in the knowledge of You. Our time, energy, gifts, and resources serve Your purpose. We work with diligence, wisdom, and excellence, in Jesus’ name! (Psalm 37:23; Ephesians 2:10; Colossians 1:10)

Scripture: Romans 8:5-6 | Joshua 1:8 I’m realizing how strategically the very things God instructs us to do are the things the world constantly competes to distract us from. Walking in the finished works of Jesus requires intentional fellowship with the Holy Spirit, talking with Him throughout our day, and meditating on His Word day and night. These are not religious obligations; they are vital to cultivating the intimacy, faith, and spiritual awareness that empower us to walk in the loving, joyful, purpose-filled life God has provided through Christ. Our spiritual focus must be intentional. The world constantly pulls our attention toward the flesh and temporary things, but we are called to set our minds on the things of the Spirit. May our spiritual eyes and ears remain open, our hearts attentive to His leading, and our minds continually renewed by His Word. Reflective Question: What has been competing for your attention lately, and what intentional changes can you make to deepen your fellowship with the Holy Spirit and keep your mind focused on the Word of God?

Hey SOZO Fam!! It's that lovely time of fellowship again😄 Our Live Call is tomorrow (Wednesday October 21, 2026) @7pm EST, 6pm CST, & 4pm PST We will be continuing our forum conversation inspired by @Patty M and my reflection from 10/19 "When God Sends a Boat!" Jesse and I are currently digging into the word to find as many scriptural passages as we can on the different ways people received healing. The story of the bible that we have started with is 2 Kings 5:1 and 9-14. I look forward to digging in the word with you all tomorrow and fueling our faith! I love you all with the eternal love of Christ! -Shaamya

We're so glad you're here! Please, take a moment to introduce yourself so we can get to know you and welcome you into the community. 1. What's your name and where are you from? 2. What are you currently believing God for or walking by faith toward? 3. What are you hoping to learn, grow in, or experience inside SOZO? 4. What does walking in the finished works of Jesus" mean to you? No pressure and no judgement. This is a place to grow, learn, ask questions, and encourage one another. ❤️✝️