Do We Really Sacrifice?

We often talk about making sacrifices. But does that accurately describe what we’re doing? When we give our husband the last piece of pie or let our friend choose the movie we’re going to see. When we shop generic or throw a few bucks into the offering plate. Are they really sacrifices? I guess in the strictest sense of the word, they are. We have, to an extent, given up something that is valuable to us to honor another. But I think the overuse of this term has caused it to lose its meaning and impact.

King David understood this word and its significance when it came to the Lord. After his sin led to punishment of the nation of Israel that resulted in the death of 70,000 men, God called David to build an altar on the property of another. The man who owned it wanted to give it to the king. This was his reply, "No, but I will buy it from you for a price. I will not offer burnt offerings to the Lord my God that cost me nothing." (II Sam 24:24 ESV) A humbling statement.

Not too long before this incident, David made a great sacrifice. One that had nothing to do with money. He was in a war zone when he longingly stated, "Oh, that someone would give me water to drink from the well of Bethlehem that is by the gate!" (II Sam 23:15 ESV). Three of his mighty men broke through the camp of their enemy and granted his request. What was the king’s response? But he would not drink of it. He poured it out to the Lord. (II Sam 23:16 ESV)

The next time we feel like we’re making a sacrifice, especially if it’s for the Lord, let’s make sure it truly costs us something. May we give lovingly and deeply of our time, talents, and resources to the One Who gave everything for us.

Just something I’m pondering along the way, especially as Good Friday approaches.

Do We Really Sacrifice