Out of Our Comfort Zone

Out of Our Comfort Zone
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This post is a gleaning from Pastor Jerry’s sermon, as he read from Luke 15 about the scribes and Pharisees being disturbed because Jesus ate with sinners. 

Jesus did many things that to others were out of their comfort zone. 

When he was accused of eating with sinners, he at first gave them a story about the lost sheep.  The shepherd placed the 99 safely in the fold, but left his comfort and went seeking that which was lost.

The men, did not understand this story as it was too simple.  Jesus then told the story of the Prodigal Son, who requested his share up front of his inheritance.  When he had squandered it all, he finally realized that he was FAR away from his comfort zone.  He did not consider his father’s broken heart. 

He was not sorry for his wastefulness, but was sorry about his final pig pen condition.  He realized his father’s servants had it better than he presently did and he decided to return home and try to become one of his father’s servants.

His father welcomed him home, and called for a celebration, which was more for the father’s benefit than for the young man.  This feast honoring the younger son caused discomfort to the older son.  He was not happy because the father had never given him a similar banquet.  Would you say he was normal to be this uncomfortable?

How does the young son now live, knowing he is forgiven by his father?  Does he feel “at home” and comfortable in his present forgiven state?  How does he view his brother who harbors jealousy?  The sad fact is that in the home (and church) there is often friction.  Living in peace calls for a walk of forgiveness.

How do we react when a sinner comes to the Lord, and decides to visit our church?  Do we rejoice and welcome him, or do we get pushed out of shape because he is not as mature in Christ as “we are.” 

King Pharaoh reneged on his promise to let the Israelites go.  Once his discomfort was removed he changed his mind.  Actually he had no intention of releasing God’s people.

Satan has sinners in bondage in his zone.  Although there are support groups, rehab centers, the truth is the Devil does not want to let them go.  Only Jesus can set them free.

There will be a lot of people in heaven that you and I never thought would be there.  Jesus is at the back fence letting them into his kingdom as His Holy Spirit stands guard.

We may be called to leave our comfort zone to welcome new converts into the fellowship of believers, and assist them to grow in Christ.  They will need help to understand all that God has available for them. 

 

Time to get comfortable perhaps in a new zone!!

This post is shared with Charlotte’s Spiritual Sundays

Also Linked up with Michelle’s Hear it on Sunday