Scripture
I appeal to you therefore, brothers and sisters, 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 renewing of your
minds, so that you may discern what is the will of God—what is good
and acceptable and perfect.—Romans 12:1–2
Reflection
Our view of ourselves as disciples who have been personally chosen by
Jesus should alter our whole attitude toward him and motivate us strongly
for the work which has been given us to do…. The church today suffers
because so many of its members feel they have somehow made the decision to
join the church and follow Christ, rather than having a sense of being
chosen. But it is only as we see ourselves chosen, called, and
commissioned by Christ to be his disciples that we will want to stretch
ourselves—make every effort to do whatever is required—even present our
bodies a living sacrifice holy and acceptable to God to accomplish the
tasks that have been given to us.—Wallace B. Smith,
“International Perspectives on the Temple,” International Leadership
Conference, 1988.
Action
Do you have a life mission statement? Think about and record your
responses to the following questions (ask for the Holy Spirit’s help):
What are God’s designs for your life?
How are you being spiritually formed?
In what ways do you continue to magnify your calling?
With whom and in what circumstances does God use you to share Christ’s
peace? Read through your responses, praying for discernment. Craft a life
mission statement that emerges out of your meditation.
Prayer
All are called, young and old, to see visions bright and bold
Of a time and a place where the Sacred shares all space.
For our time, for all time, God’s great and marvelous work
Burns within our hearts, burns within our hearts.
Quickened steps boldly take in our journey for Christ’s sake
New paths found, fresh hope shared, where the gospel is declared
Walking proud, standing tall, responding to God’s call:
“Love for love’s own sake, love for love’s own sake.”
Open minds, willing feet, venture forth to every street
Where the lost can be found, and the songs of hope resound.
Every soul in its place, enfolded by God’s grace
Is of precious worth, is of precious worth.
Standing firm in the name of the One we do proclaim
Gives us life, sets us free to embrace diversity.
Many names, cultures vast, bring insights to the task
Blessed with harmony, blessed with harmony.
—Danny A. Belrose, Wave Offerings: Personal
Psalms, Prayers, and Pieces, 43.
May we be a living sacrifice, holy and acceptable to you, O God. Amen. |
