Comfort Zones

It’s amazing how much of our time, resources and energy we spend trying to preserve our comfort. Whether it's physical, financial or social we(myself included) are all willing to jump through some pretty ridiculous hoops to be comfortable. You may disagree but I think discomfort is a good thing (it's probably why I enjoy winter hiking in the Whites!) When I think back on the greatest achievements of my life, the things I am most proud of, all of them were difficult and they all brought me to a place of discomfort. Two things are likely to happen when we get out of our comfort zones. First we are faced with the reality of our own limitations. I think God likes to bring us to this place so that we cling to Him for stability and strength. Second, when we're willing to face discomfort with courage and reliance on God, He will often give us the strength and the means to do something great for his glory.

Jesus was willing to courageously leave the ultimate comfort zone(heaven) and endure the hardships of humanity and ultimately death, all because he loves you...Let that sink in...The gospel of Jesus is not a message of fear or avoidance of pain, it's one of love and sacrifice. I encourage you to live in light of that gospel. How is God calling you to sacrifice your comfort for the love of others this week?

So go ahead...be friendly to strangers, open your home to outsiders, seek out those on the fringe, give beyond your means...Whatever God is telling you to do, do it boldly and with courage, because when you live out of love and sacrifice toward others, you are a living demonstration of the love of Jesus.