But, of course, we don't have to suppose any such thing because we know that the Supreme Sacrifice was found and obediently gave up his life with his Father to live on earth among people just like us. Jesus lived a human existence. He knew hardships that I can't say I've experienced and some that I have. He died for something He didn't do. He sacrificed for people who don't always have the sense to fully appreciate what He gave up. He did all this because He was obedient to the cross, because we needed a perfect sacrifice if we were to be saved. God so loved us that He gave his only Son.
I have a comfortable home, my real needs are met, and I have stuff, but deep down inside, I don't want to be asked to sacrifice because I'm afraid of what God might ask of me. I have run like a maniac from the thought that God might call me into some kind of ministry (translate "missionary" or "preacher") because to me that is all about giving up stuff, the "comforts of home." Yet, I want the security of God's hand on my life and that of my family.
Lately, I've been thinking how arrogant we are to think that we can have God's blessings without living sacrificially. After all, He gave his Son for us; why should we be exempt from sacrifice? God doesn't ask us necessarily to live a life of poverty, but He does ask that we give our lives as living sacrifices, and that's going to look different for each of us because He has designed each of us for a divine purpose.
As parents, our children are watching our lives. They see whether or not we are "living sacrifices" or if we are "Christians of convenience." The times when we make the tough choice to do that "hard thing" God asks of us will be the times our children remember and draw from when life challenges them. How we respond to God's calling, His prompting in our lives, will set the stage for how our children will respond when they are called to give their lives to the Lord.
Let's proclaim as Joshua did: "...choose you this day whom ye will serve...; but as for me and my house, we will serve the Lord (Joshua 24:14-15)." This may mean sacrifice, but our reward is great, and God promises to provide for all our needs (also see Philippians 4:19) and be the strength we need to do all He asks of us.
Lord, I have so much to learn about living sacrificially. You have blessed me more than I can even tell. I owe you nothing less than my obedience to your desires for my life.
Please help us to give you first place in our lives. Help us to live before our children the joy of giving and the faith in knowing that You reward those who diligently seek You.
Lord, help us daily to give sacrificially of ourselves to those around us that they might see You and come to know you as their Lord and Savior. This we pray in your name, Amen.
