Sweet Sacrifices

Sweet Sacrifices

Don’t forget to do good and to share with those in need. These are the sacrifices that please God.

Hebrews 13:16

Our actions and reactions are more the result of training than we may realize. We are used to living within a particular system, and—even for believers—moving outside that system takes thought and conscious effort. For example, in my everyday life, I’m trained to look after the needs of my husband and family. I am also concerned about my neighbors and my community, but it takes time and effort to step outside my comfort zone and care for their needs.

The opposite is true for the Amish. Their eyes are fixed on their community, and the needs of others stand out like neon signs. If someone loses a barn, others provide materials and labor for a new one within days. When illness or death comes to a home, neighbors bring food and help out without being asked. It’s the expected thing to do, and they do it with joy.

Reflecting on this, I’ve taken steps to train myself to live more like an Amish person. To take a meal to a sick friend. To offer a prayer and send a note to someone who might be discouraged. To check in at the child-care center at church to see if they need an extra hand (many times they do). Doing good and sharing not only benefit others but are also sacrifices that please God.

In the New Testament, a gift or sacrifice offered to another is described as “a sweet-smelling sacrifice that is acceptable and pleasing to God” (Philippians 4:18). No sacrifice is easy. God knows that. But with practice our response can become natural. We can train ourselves to act in this way. When we do, we not only help another but also set an example for others to follow. More than that, we bring pleasure to God’s Father-heart.

Dear heavenly Father, transform my heart to be more like Yours. Let it become a natural thing for me to give to others and to serve them. May all that I do be a sweet-smelling sacrifice to You!