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Zealicious!
Have you ever witnessed someone doing what they love and thought, “Wow, they are on fire”? There's a certain energy, a vibrancy, an unmistakable light in their eyes. That, my friends, is what Charles Fillmore, co-founder of Unity, called Zeal.
Zeal is one of the twelve spiritual powers that Fillmore taught live within each of us. It's that inner flame, the divine spark that drives us to leap out of bed with purpose, to create, to serve, to love with our whole hearts. Zeal isn't just enthusiasm—it's spiritual enthusiasm. It's what happens when passion aligns with purpose. Charles Fillmore, even at the age of 94, once said:
“I fairly sizzle with zeal and enthusiasm and spring forth with a mighty faith to do the things that are to be done by me today.” What a way to live.
It's tempting to think of Zeal as something only the naturally energetic or youthful
possess. But spiritual Zeal is not about physical energy. It's about heart energy. It's about living with intention and presence, not just speed or volume. It's that inner knowing that something important is calling us forward—and choosing to say yes to that call.
And here's the good news: Zeal isn't something we have to find. It's already within us. Like embers in a fire pit, sometimes it just needs a little oxygen—some attention, reflection, or inspiration—to flare up again.
As I prepare for this Sunday's talk, “Igniting the Flame Within: Embracing the Power of Zeal,” I've been reflecting on the ways we can nurture this power in ourselves and one another. Here are a few thoughts I'll be expanding on this weekend:
1. Zeal begins with listening.
Often, we're so busy trying to keep up with life that we forget to listen to the inner
stirrings of our soul. Zeal begins in stillness, not noise. When we create space to listen deeply, to ask what makes our hearts come alive, we reconnect with the flame that's always been there.
2. Zeal needs direction.
Like a fire, Zeal can warm or it can burn. Spiritual maturity means pairing our
enthusiasm with discernment. Where is your Zeal leading you? Toward healing? Toward creating? Toward helping others? Zeal with direction becomes a sacred force.
3. Zeal thrives in community.
There's something contagious about being around people who are excited about life. That's why spiritual community matters. We remind each other who we are. We fan each other's flames when they grow dim. We say, “I see the spark in you,” even when someone forgets it's there.
Myrtle Fillmore, a woman of great spiritual wisdom and quiet strength, taught that when we align with our divine identity, our bodies, minds, and lives begin to heal and transform. She saw the power of thought, imagination, and intention as tools for calling forth our highest self.
And that's really what Zeal is all about: answering the call of our highest self. Saying yes to the divine energy within. Living with the kind of radiant aliveness that lifts not just ourselves but those around us.
So let me ask you:
* What ignites your inner flame?
* What's one thing you've been putting off that, deep down, you know you're meant to do?
* Where might Spirit be inviting you to show up with more passion, creativity, or
courage?
This Sunday, we'll explore how to recognize, reclaim, and reignite the sacred spark of Zeal—so we can sizzle with enthusiasm just like Charles did.
I hope you'll join us.
Because your flame, your Zeal, matters.
And the world needs your light.
With fiery love, Rev. Bobby
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