Do not neglect to do good and to share what you have, for such sacrifices are pleasing to God. Hebrews 13:16 NRSV
When we think of sacrifices, what may come to mind are the offerings of atonement offered to God in the Old Testament. We also likely think of Christ, the pure lamb, who offered his life so we may be purified. Thanks to this precious gift, blood sacrifice is no longer required. However, when we accept Him, we become a different sort of sacrifice–a living one.
What does it mean to be a living sacrifice? Merriam-Webster defines sacrifice as the "destruction or surrender of something for the sake of something else." In rejecting the sinful ways of humankind for the righteous ways of God, we become an offering. As the Holy Spirit leads us, all our words and actions are gifts back to Him. In these acts, we are responding to His grace.
We are living sacrifices at all times and places. Together in our Sunday morning worship and communion. In our midweek virtual Bible studies and prayer meetings. But also in the sometimes scary world outside our security blanket. Those places where we may feel vulnerable but are sent to carry Christ's love into the world. In sharing what we have, our resources of prayers, witness, time, and money. When we give freely of ourselves, we become pleasing sacrifices to God.
Heavenly Father, we thank you for the atonement of our sins through Jesus Christ and the leading of the Holy Spirit. Help us to be the living sacrifices to affect change in the world. May our words and actions be found pleasing to you. In Christ Jesus, we pray. Amen.
Blessings,
Pastor Tim.
I appeal to you therefore, brothers and sisters, by the mercies of God, to present your bodies as a living sacrifice, holy and acceptable to God, which is your spiritual worship. Do not be conformed to this world, but be transformed by the renewing of your minds, so that you may discern what is the will of God—what is good and acceptable and perfect. Romans 12:1-2 NRSV
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