zoning changes
“He dawns through the darkness, a light for the upright.” —Psalm 112:4
In many aspects of our lives, we have various zones. For example, we all have comfort zones in work, relationships, prayer, study, service, etc. In our comfort zones, we are relaxing and probably enjoying ourselves.
If we, because of love or some other reason, cross the boundary of our comfort zone, we enter into a discomfort zone. In this zone, we are struggling and suffering (see 1 Pt 4:19). In this zone, we find both the danger of burnout and the opportunity for significant growth in holiness as our faculties are challenged and exercised vigorously.
If we proceed further in love and cross the boundary of the discomfort zone, we enter a new, mysterious zone which is difficult to name. It is a zone of mystery and of the paradox of indescribable joy combined with crucified love. In this zone, we are living, giving, praying and fasting “on the edge.” We are secretly extending ourselves more than ever before, and our Father Who sees in secret will repay us (Mt 6:4, 6, 18). This is the zone of agonizing temptations and Paschal victory.
Cross the border into a zone of greater love.
Prayer: Father, may I accept that my life is zoned for the cross.
Promise: “He Who supplies seed for the sower and bread for the eater will provide in abundance; He will multiply the seed you sow and increase your generous yield.” —2 Cor 9:10
Praise: St. Aloysius Gonzaga gave his life serving those dying from an epidemic.
Reference: (For a related teaching on Developing a Deep, Personal Relationship with Jesus, listen to, download or order our CD 52-1 or DVD 52 on our website.)
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