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. 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: | Margaret gives heartfelt thanks to Jesus for waking up each day. |
Reprinted with permission from Presentation Ministries, a lay association of the Catholic Church that focuses on evangelization and discipleship through Bible teaching, daily Mass, the charisms of the Holy Spirit, and Small Christian Community. Their ministries include:
· One Bread, One Body
· Daily Bread Radio Program
· Annual Bible Institute
· Discipleship Retreats
· Guadalupe Bible College