By the Rev. Dr. William Godwin
The Christian faith insists that we become “living sacrifices.” Our Lord calls us to change what’s evil within us. Through the power of the Holy Spirit we are to be transformed into Christ’s likeness. Paul tells us in Romans 12:1-2 what being a “living sacrifice” involves and then what the results of such living are.
The essence of this idea of sacrifice is that we are to be willing to offer ourselves to God. The truest sacrifice we can make is to try and live according to His purposes for our lives. Paul says that true freedom comes when we unquestioningly turn to service of God. It’s ceasing to live only for ourselves. We’re to serve God in all we are and do.
We are tempted to be part-time Christians. We’re tempted to compromise our faith. When we become “living sacrifices,” however, we are transformed Christians. We don’t live according to the mandates of this present age, we are completely reoriented. Even our minds are different. We’re to live lives consecrated to God and lives that are not conformed to this world, but transformed by God.
What are the blessings that come to us when we are “living sacrifices”? We are accepted by God. Charles Colson was the White House “tough guy” during Nixon’s administration. After Nixon’s resignation as president, Colson became a Christian and experienced the rewards of being a “living sacrifice.” He never had to go to jail because he was innocent of the major charge against him: that he had ordered the burglary in Daniel Elsberg’s psychiatrist’s office.
But Colson did go to jail because the power of Jesus Christ had convinced him that he was morally guilty of organizing many White House “dirty tricks,” and that he owed a debt to society. He pleaded guilty to an act that technically was not even a crime and the judge sentenced him to years in prison. He thanks God for that prison time because it led to the prison Christian ministry he founded. We can hear God say “well done, good and faithful servant.”
God comforts us by showing us we are on the right track. He helps us discern His will and to know Him. There is no greater feeling than to have served God well and have peace of mind that you've pleased Him. The blessings are infinite. One Christian prayer goes like this: “Lord, here’s my mind, think your thoughts in me. Be my wisdom, knowledge and insight. Free me to speak with silence or with words, whichever is needed. Give me your timing and tenderness. Now, here is my body. Release creative affection in my face, my touch, my embrace. If there is something you wish me to do, control my will to do it. Through Christ, amen!”
Be a “living sacrifice” for your Lord God.
The Rev. Dr. William Edward (Bill) Godwin is pastor of Peace Christian Fellowship in Palm Springs and a member of the Mid-Valley Interfaith Council.
