Tonight I was reading a book called “In His Zone” by Fr. Mark Goring, CC* which explores the practical wisdom needed for thriving in solitude. I was at the end of chapter one when a paragraph in particular stood out as something I wanted to remember. Quoting directly from the book,
“Those who are running away from God can never expect to enter into His Zone. If we are drowning out His gentle voice with our music players, if we are turning down His invitations to be with Him by sitting in front of the TV, if we prefer to chatter on the phone rather than be consoled by the Holy Spirit’s friendship, then our hearts will remain lukewarm.” (pg 23)
After reading this, I couldn’t help but think of all the times I turned on the radio because it was too “quiet” or called someone on the phone because I was lonely. Now that we’re nearing the third Sunday of Advent it seems like a perfect time, if you haven’t already, to turn down that music or try texting and talking on the phone less. This is the time of preparation for the birth of our Lord and Saviour! We should strive to be In His Zone, to listen and let Him talk to us. To be in His Zone is “is to experience supernatural peace” (pg 15). As Fr. Mark explains, one cannot force God to give us this supernatural peace, but we can dispose ourselves to it. Meaning, if we give our best time to God, He’ll give us peaceful souls. The closer we know our Saviour, the more peace we will feel and the more likely we are to be In His Zone! So, my brothers and sisters, even though we’re all stressing about exams right now, try and give Jesus the best part of your day, whether it be a few minutes in the morning as soon as you awake or later at night before you sleep. Already we’re nearing the third week of Advent, but there’s still plenty of time to prepare for Christmas and turn our hearts and minds towards God. Remember, He loves you more than you could ever imagine!
In Christ,
Nick
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*Fr. Mark Goring, CC, In His Zone - 7 Principles for Thriving in Solitude
haha properly cited and everything! lol thanks Nick i love this book. what a great reminder. :)
ReplyDeletelol probably means I've been in school too long :P
ReplyDeletethe book is also a favorite of mine :)
I like :)
ReplyDeleteIt's nice not to own a portable music device (cellphone not included) or a radio. I'm never tempted to fill my air with noiseee.
Though, don't get me wrong, music is good stuff :D
mmm, so true, thank Nick!
ReplyDeleteI was sitting around being bored yesterday and it took me so long to decide that prayer was the best use of my time... before that I tried gchat, facebook, youtube.... but those don't satisfy like He does!
also, i really need to finish In His Zone