Living Sacrifices

​11-4-22
Today’s devotion is based on Saint Paul’s appeal to the Roman Christians. “I appeal to you, therefore, brothers, by the mercies of God, to present your bodies as a living sacrifice, holy and acceptable to God, which is your spiritual worship. Do not be conformed to this world, but be transformed by the renewal of your mind, that by testing you may discern what the will of God is, what is good and acceptable and perfect.” (Romans 12:1-2 ESV)

The sacrificial worship of God’s people had been at the temple in Jerusalem (a long, long way from Rome). The sacrifice is where God met with humanity and blessed them with his gracious presence. The temple is no longer needed, for after Jesus’ death and resurrection, the gathered body of believers, wherever they are, is where God meets with humanity!

You might be asking, “How is this done.” As verse two states, it is not by being under the influence of worldly things but by being under God’s influence. It is about letting the Holy Spirit renew our minds as we spend time in God’s word discerning his will for our relationships, marriages, families, work, business and leisure, our life as citizens, and in the church. You are a fully alive sacrifice making a difference in this world for Christ’s sake.
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Please pray with me, Holy Spirit, as we have heard from God’s word; come and renew us – body, mind, and spirit. We offer you our whole lives. As we serve you today, show us how we can be your people, your light in the world. In Jesus’ name, I pray. Amen.