Romans 12:1-2
I beseech you therefore, brethren, by the mercies of God, that you present your bodies a living sacrifice, holy, acceptable to God, which is your reasonable service. And do not be conformed to this world, but be transformed by the renewing of your mind, that you may prove what is that good and acceptable and perfect will of God. Romans 12:1-2 (NKJV)
In the first 11 chapters of Romans Paul focuses on the doctrine of the Christian movement. Focused on the teachings of Jesus and His immediate followers. It was a doctrine of Love, Grace, and care for others. Putting God first and in focus.
Chapter 12 starts to tradition from doctrine to how we can experience a life with Jesus. Paul’s letter to the Roman churches was delivered by Pricilla and Aquila with Lydia (Phillipi 1st European convert). Imagine what it must have been like to be a witness of these first readings by Paul’s close friends.
How does Paul’s words resonate with us today? Do you present your body as a living sacrifice? Complete and fully?
The prophet Isaiah had this view of the Jews “These people come near to me with their mouth and honor me with their lips, but their hearts are far from me”.
Do you wear Jesus (or your faith) on your sleeve and in your heart on Sunday mornings, but not during the rest of your week ? There are so many distractions during the week that take up our focus. Work issues, family schedules, health concerns, and as I write this on Nov 5th celebrating that the political ads and mudslinging will finally be over, yet worried about the divisiveness in our country. It is so easy to be internally focused on our own life issues.
Billy Graham described living sacrifice as “The highest form of worship is the worship of unselfish Christian service”. Being a living sacrifice signifies a continuous, active offering of oneself to God.
It can be difficult to totally transition to being a “living sacrifice”. Yet maybe we can start with baby steps. Start with a morning prayer or reading SWL devotions. Opening a door or saying a friendly hello to someone you don’t know. Listening to other’s opinions and just saying “that is an interesting perspective” – especially as we reflect on the election results regardless of who “won”. Looking at others as a child of God, versus an advisory or different than me. Every journey begins with a single step forward/upward. Let’s begin together.
Questions for Reflection:
- How can I today take a step closer to Jesus?
- What can I do to be more of a “Living Sacrifice” of Jesus?
Prayer:
Dear Lord, Please help me to find ways to focus on You more, and me less. Help me to see others as an opportunity to experience a new perspective, new insight, and a chance to broaden my understanding of how Jesus felt when I reached out to others. In Christ name. Amen.
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