The Blessing of the “Do Over”
We are all about cycles at CCL–teaching men and women about the fertility cycle and inviting them to join the natural “dance” of renewal as an underlying melody of their married life. Like the seasons of the year that rule our gardens, these repetitive cycles allow us another chance to discern God’s will for our family with each turn.
I remember being struck by St Julia’s reflection that “the journey of life is like a spiral which gives us chances to do better through each turn, drawing ever closer to the center which is Christ.” While it may be comforting to be doing something I have done before, it can also leave me feeling in a rut. Looking at this instead as another opportunity to “do it better” and grow closer to Christ is an outlook that is challenging but also gives me hope!
A “Do Over”
NFP is flourishing because of the reassuring revelation of our natural fertility cycles and how we can understand and work with the system that God designed. NFP also gives us a way to be part of the creative power of God. “Therefore, if anyone is in Christ, he is a new creation; the old things have passed away; behold, all things have become new.” (2 Corinthians 5:17) While God’s creative power is seen most profoundly in the creation of a new eternal soul, it is important to recognize that God’s creative power is also expressed at an everyday level as we participate in the daily cycle of “life, death and resurrection.” Beyond just a “do over” opportunity–“sprucing up” our image–God desires a renewal; for us to become a new creation in Christ. Imagine that!
Your willingness to be part of the CCL family and giving of yourself as a teacher, promoter, or donor sends a powerful, life-giving witness to the world. Thank you! Please check out our beautifully renewed class materials, new PeakDay app and new Natural Plan, Mother/Daughter, Revelation90 and Young Adult programs. It is the Jubilee Year! You and those you invite are welcome to join us in teaching: www.ccli.org/teach. Asking Special blessings of St Carlo Acutis on the CCL family!
Written by Katie Zulanas, CCL Executive Director, for Family Foundation magazine.