At a J2H retreat, the four teaching sessions are followed by a fifth: a prayer watch. It is 120 minutes of seeking the Lord together in a small group — ideally of no more than five people.
The watch is meant to be unhurried. There is no agenda to finish. It promises to be refreshing, because its purpose is simply to enjoy His presence.
Four movements
The watch has four elements. Under each are a few simple suggestions for your group.
Watch the Lord
- Begin with worship.
- Turn your eyes to who He is.
Watch the Word
- Read Scripture aloud together.
- Listen for what He is saying.
Watch in Intercession
- Pray for one another.
- Stand in the gap for others and for the nations.
Watch His Return
- Lift your eyes to Jesus' return.
- Pray “Your kingdom come.”
Keeping a watch at home or church
- Gather a small group — up to five is best.
- Agree on two hours, and protect them. Put phones away.
- Let one person gently guide the group from one movement to the next.
- Leave room for silence. Not every moment needs words.
“Couldn't you men keep watch with me for one hour?”— Matthew 26:40