Sweet Sacrifice

“Therefore, through Him let us continually offer up to God a sacrifice of praise … Don’t neglect to do good and to share, for God is pleased with such sacrifices.” Heb. 13:16

As I struggle to write my thoughts this morning, my husband is waiting for me to finish this article and head to the store so that we can begin to conquer our Christmas shopping list.  Only a few shopping days left, but I am fighting against the obligation.  I do not enjoy shopping.  Not at all.  And I always squirm under the pressure of giving (or receiving) presents at this time of year.  Constrained to conform, my rebellious, stony heart just wants to yell, “Forget it!” 

Then I think of Jesus.  Strange, isn’t it?  How can all this material madness remind me of Him?  As embarrassingly cliché as it sounds—okay, as it is—Jesus is THE most incredible Christmas gift.  And when I think about that gift, my hard, Scroogey heart melts.  Oh, what a Gift.  Oh, what a Giver.  Oh, what a sacrifice.

Jesus, though He was enthroned in heaven, became “lower than the angels so that by God’s grace He might taste death for everyone” (Heb. 2:9).  His gift was immeasurably great, and my heart sings “Joy to the world” just thinking about it.  His preposterous sacrifice—so immense and so obscene in its generosity—makes me want to respond in a way that can match the gift.  But what could I ever give to the Someone who has everything?

All I can give Him is me.  What a humbling thought.  But it is all I have.  This morning, these minutes, the next twelve days, and the rest of my life.  Oh Jesus, I want to give it all to You.  Let me see You in every person I meet today.  Help me to share your Gift as I try to meet the needs of those around me.  And help me to honor You—with my thoughts, with my attitude, with my words and actions.  Give me a desire to do good and to share and make my offering to you, as puny a thing as I am, a pleasing sacrifice and a sweet aroma around your throne. 

Yes.  I’m surprised, too.  This newfound joy may ruin my reputation as the resident Grinch, but joy to the world!  Jesus is here.  Let heaven and nature sing.  And let my heart sing, as well.  Even as I head to the mall. 

[By Lisa Huddleston]

 

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