When I look at what God has commanded of me, I can only think that in order to accomplish those, I have to have given a lot to God and denied myself. And that is sacrifice.
“1I appeal to you therefore, brothers, by the mercies of God, to present your bodies as a living sacrifice, holy and acceptable to God, which is your spiritual worship.” – Romans 12:1 (ESV)
“Living sacrifice” is an interesting take. As I think of what a sacrifice is, I think to the death of something for the life of something else. In the Old Testament, sacrifices were killed and offered to God. They died as a representation of something or as a gift.
Paul refers to “living sacrifice” to indicate that there is no “death” associated with our work for Christ. I was spared the horrible death by the death of Christ. I am given the opportunity to continue doing for my God without the fear of dying for absolution or as a gift of my loyalty.
I get to “live” as a representation of the love that God has for me. I get to do the work of Christ here in this world, knowing that my reward is in heaven. I was absolved of my sin and can now focus on the good I am able to bring through the love of Christ each day. I am a child of God and He will protect me from death to be sure that I have every opportunity to live for Him and demonstrate His love to those around me. I AM A LIVING SACRIFICE!!!
Are you dying trying to get absolution? What is your mission/purpose here in this world? Will you accept that you can be/are a “living sacrifice” to God?
Trevor's Thoughts 