Advent: the High Places - Monday, December 23
The people were sacrificing at the high places, however, because no house had yet been built for the name of the LORD.
1 Kings 3:2
When I read this verse I could not help but ask, "What is my sacrifice?"
If we no longer sacrifice burnt offerings to the Lord, we must now sacrifice of ourselves, the same way Jesus did.
If it were not for the sacrifice of Jesus, we would never have a relationship with our Heavenly Father. Through the sacrifice, the shedding of His own blood, we have eternal life. God also sacrificed - he gave up his one and only son, giving Him to the world as a newborn baby in a manger, fully knowing how his life would end.
Any sacrifice I make for the Lord is nothing compared to what has already been done for me. Yet, we continue to give to sacrifice for his Kingdom, giving of our time, treasure, and talents to the "high places" so those around us, my Native brothers and sisters, can know Jesus as their Savior.
Gracious, Heavenly Father, thank you for your continued grace and mercy. Often times, we forget to go to our "high place" - a place where we meet with you to discuss your will here on earth, a place where you are the most important of all things in this world. Place upon us a spirit of strength and wisdom. Help us to see what you want us to see in order to carry out your will. Place in each of us a new heart and a new understanding. Father, we are so grateful that you have a love for each of your children that is greater than any sin. We thank you for all of your blessings. In Jesus' name, we pray. Amen.