A God Who Sacrifices

   “Go and learn the meaning of the words, ‘I desire mercy, not sacrifice.’  (Matt 9: 13)

   Pagan gods demand sacrifice.  Over the centuries the followers of false gods have sacrificed much to gain the pleasure of the gods.  Many have even offered human sacrifice in their attempts to please their god.

   Still today people offer homage to the false gods.  Some lose their families by the hours they work in sacrifice to the god of money.  Others destroy their marriage as they sacrifice chastity to fornication.  Some sacrifice their own children through abortion to the god of so-called sexual freedom.  We may not name our false gods as the pagans did, but they are our gods, nonetheless.

   The one true God sacrifices for us.  Our Lord sacrificed His glory to become one like us except in sin.  The Creator became the brother of the created.  He humbled Himself as an example to us.  He never sought fame or glory, only the salvation of His people.  At the last supper Jesus took on the role of the lowliest of slaves, washing the feet of His apostles.  He taught, “Blessed are the meek, for they shall inherit the land.” (Matt 5: 5).

   He was betrayed and abandoned by His closest friends.  He bared His back to the whips of the scourging, His head to the pain of the crown of thorns.  He carried His cross through the streets of Jerusalem and was nailed to it on Calvary.  These sacrifices He made because of His love and mercy for us.   He gave His life that we might have life eternal.

   So many continue to sacrifice to false gods, seeking fortune, fame, and self-gratification.  They have turned their back on the One who can truly save; the God who sacrifices for His people.

Father we turn to many false gods.

You are the one true God.

The Son sacrificed His life for our salvation.

May we turn to You in praise and thanksgiving.

Amen