L I V I N G    S A C R I F I C E S

Romans 12:1-2

What sort of sacrifices have you made for your athletic career?  What have you given up to pursue a life of athletics?  Sacrifice is something most people never even consider, let alone complete.  In these next three letters we'll consider what it is to be a living sacrifice.

In Paul's letter to the Romans at chapter 12 and verses 1 and 2 it says, "Therefore, I urge you, brothers, in view of God's mercy, to offer your bodies as living sacrifices, holy and pleasing to God-this is your spiritual act of worship.  Do not conform any longer to the pattern of the world, but be transformed by the renewing of your mind."

At the time of this writing by Paul, sacrifices were usually killed and laid upon an altar to be burned up.  The problem with "living sacrifices" is that they tend to crawl off the altar when it gets a little hot.  We start with good intentions of making a sacrifice for our teammates, our family or career, but when it gets uncomfortable we often snatch the sacrifice from the altar and lose the reward that comes from faithfulness.

The good news is that God's grace enables us to offer our very bodies in daily service to Him.  He calls it holy, pleasing service that is a spiritual act of worship.  Let God's grace move you to sacrifice whatever it takes to pursue a life that's holy and pleasing to the Lord.  Further, make the sacrifices necessary to pursue the goals you and your team have established for this season.

Bible Reading Plan:
Luke 19:28-38
Titus 1:11-15
Proverbs 1518-33
Esther 2