SACRIFICE

Romans 12:1—Therefore, I urge you, brothers, in view of God’s mercy, to offer your bodies as living sacrifices, holy and pleasing to God—this is your spiritual act of worship.

I don’t remember his name, which is somewhat profound. He was the cadet speaker at the Army Quarterback Luncheon before Army’s game against Tulane. He was a senior and it was obvious that he had gained his coach’s respect. What was so remarkable about this young man? He never played a down in a game for the Army football team in his four years at West Point.

This well-built scholar-athlete served on the Scout team, a squad whose members were cannon fodder for the varsity line to practice against each week. Imagine practicing for four years on a team you will never see action with! Imagine knowing you are too slow and not quite gifted enough to be on the field, yet never quitting! Why did this leader of the forgotten squad persevere? He believed in the team. He valued the camaraderie. He understood the bigger picture and realized his role, though without glamour, was essential nonetheless. He was a believer in Army football and his testimony was inspiring.

Do you long for recognition that never seems to come? Do you know what it means to wallow on the plains of drudgery while others bask in recognition? Be encouraged my friend! It is not the letter on the jacket that makes a person special. It is the willingness to serve unpretentiously for the greater cause. God looks for hearts that are committed to serve Him. “You also, like living stones, are being built into a spiritual house to be a holy priesthood, offering spiritual sacrifices acceptable to God through Jesus Christ.” (1 Peter 2:5) In the house Jesus builds, every stone is important.

Do you love God? Will you serve Him no matter how the world treats you? Your willingness to obey Christ at any cost is not just necessary it is essential! Duty is not defined by glamour, or honor by position. It is a heart steadfastly set on following God at all costs that stands as the noble example. This heart understands and relishes the opportunity to be faithful for a perfect Coach on a team of followers intent on winning the game of life before a world of searchers that are far more observant than we think. Get up! Get dressed! Get on with the task of serving—you can do it in the strength of the Lord, for His glory and your joy! Something to think about . . . in reveration.

Inspiration
It is one thing to go on the lonely way with dignified heroism, but quite another thing if the line mapped out for you by God means being a door-mat under other people’s feet. Suppose God wants to teach you to say, “I know how to be abased”--are you ready to be offered up like that?—Oswald Chambers in My Utmost For His Highest