From Comfort Zone to Mission Zone

 “Here am I; send me!” (Isaiah 6:8)

During my early university days, when my conviction to reach out grew stronger, I made a prayer that would shape my entire life. I bought two maps—one of Karnataka and one of the world. Across them, in bold letters, I wrote: “Here I am, Lord, send me as your light to the ends of the earth”.

At that time, it felt powerful and courageous. It was easy to write on the map, just as it is easy to make promises in prayer, during Holy Mass or Adoration. Yet I soon realised that the Lord listens attentively to such prayers. He began to send me to different parts of Karnataka for Jesus Youth programs. This meant leaving the safety of my comfort zone. For an introvert, it was not easy to enter unfamiliar places, speak to large groups and meet countless new people.

In 2013, I was elected as the National Coordinator of Jesus Youth. The challenges became even greater. It was no longer only about personal sacrifices. The burden of coordinating a vast ministry rested on my shoulders. I had to resign from my job, relocate from Bangalore to Cochin for the sake of the movement and carry the weight of being the coordinator.

At times, I felt weak, almost crushed by the responsibility, yet I experienced what St Paul himself said: “When I am weak, then I am strong” (2 Corinthians 12:10). God was faithful at every step. He provided strength when mine was gone. He opened doors when I thought they were closed. He gave companions on the journey when I feared loneliness. Truly, His grace was sufficient, and His power was made perfect in my weakness.

When I was called to serve as the International Coordinator, the demands grew still heavier. It was not simply about travelling across countries. The challenges of the national ministry followed me into the international field, yet now on a larger scale. I had just been married for six weeks when this call came. My wife stood by me with extraordinary faith and courage. Together we embraced the mission, even though it required more sacrifices. Once again, the Lord proved His promise: “I am with you always, to the end of the age” (Matthew 28:20).

Looking back, I see how simple it was to write a prayer on a map, but how costly it was to live it out. Yet I also see that I have lost nothing by giving myself to the mission. The Lord blessed me abundantly—not only with material provisions, but with joy, friendships, peace, and the deep assurance that my life has a purpose greater than myself.

This month, as we celebrate the feast of St Francis of Assisi, we are reminded of this great man who left his comfort zone. Francis was born into wealth and ease, yet he chose poverty, simplicity and radical discipleship. His “yes” to God transformed not only his own life but the Church and the world. He dared to leave behind the comfort and in doing so, became a missionary of peace and joy.

For many of us, the most difficult mission field is not in a distant land but within our own homes, parishes, schools or workplaces. To be patient with family, to forgive someone who has wronged us, to live the Gospel among our peers—these are the missions that stretch us beyond comfort.

Mission is never about remaining where we are secure. It is always about stepping out, trusting that the Lord who calls also sustains. He does not abandon those He sends. He is faithful, yesterday, today, and forever.

So I ask you, what comfort zone is God inviting you to leave behind? Where is your mission zone today? Will you dare to pray with courage, “Here I am, Lord, send me”—as Isaiah prayed, as St Francis lived and as the Lord still asks of us?