A Living Sacrifice

This Sunday, Von, one of our elders brought God’s word from Romans 12:1-21, exhorting us that in light of God’s abundant mercies, our only reasonable response is to live as a living sacrifice—fully devoted to God in worship, service, and love.

After journeying through Romans 1-11, we’ve seen the depth of God’s grace. Though we were sinners, Christ died for us. We have been justified by faith, freed from the power of sin, and made alive in Christ. Because of His unfailing love and sovereign mercy, we cannot help but offer our entire lives back to Him. This is true worship—a total, logical, spiritual, and transformational offering of ourselves.

This life of worship is not lived in isolation—it compels us to serve the church. Each of us has been gifted by God to play a unique role in the body of Christ. With humility, we are called to serve diligently, embracing unity in diversity and using our gifts to strengthen and encourage one another.

But worship doesn’t stop there. We are also called to love our neighbors with a love that is sincere and active. This love extends beyond those closest to us—it reaches even our enemies. Just as God showed us mercy while we were still sinners, we are called to overcome evil with good, reflecting the heart of Christ in all circumstances.

In light of all God has done, how can we do anything less? Let our hearts be surrendered, our hands be ready to serve, and our love reflect the mercy we have so freely received.