A Sacrifice of Praise
Good Wednesday to you,
What does a "sacrifice of praise" cost us? When King David determined to offer a sacrifice to the Lord on the threshing floor of Araunah the Jebusite, the location was offered to him free of charge. He refused, stating, "No, I insist on paying you for it. I will not sacrifice to the Lord my God burnt offerings that cost me nothing" (2 Sam 24:18-25).
After crafting a theology of Jesus Christ, who was superior to the angels, Moses, and even the high priest, the author spends the final chapter of this "short sermon" on application. We are encouraged to love one another as brothers and sisters, extend hospitality, and live within the moral framework provided by the Ten Commandments. The key comes next; "Through Jesus, therefore, let us continually offer to God a sacrifice of praise – the fruit of lips that confess His name. And do no forget to do good and to share with others, for with such sacrifices God is pleased" (Heb 13:15-16).
What does this look like? It looks like faithful obedience. It looks like application of the spiritual disciplines in our lives. It looks like service and sacrifice to others. This is what a "sacrifice of praise" costs us. It is a price, not of obligation or duty, but of gratitude for the grace and forgiveness we have been given. Grace becomes the operative word as we live out our faith. Inwardly, we strive to be "just people." Outwardly we strive to "love mercy while walking humbly with God." We get to "burn through grace like a jet burns through fuel!" (Thank you, Dallas Willard.)
We are living is challenging times. We must remember Jesus' words, "In this world you will have trouble. But take heart! I have overcome the world" (John 16:33). Our challenge is to respond with love and grace while standing firm on what we believe, why we believe, and in Whom we believe.
Many of you have been asking about Jody's seminar comparing a biblical worldview with Critical Race Theory (which is its own worldview). The seminar has been scheduled for Saturday, July 17, from 10:00am - 12:00pm. It will be either in the Parish Hall or the sanctuary depending on how many participate. This is an informational seminar for Christians and will include a brief history and some definitions; however, it will primarily be an assessment of CRT from a biblical perspective. It is not a debate. As such, we will not be advertising this to the larger community. Depending on its reception, it may be offered again. It will not be online or recorded. There will be time for Q&A during the session. If anyone would like to remain for more conversation (optional, of course), bring a lunch and join an informal discussion afterward in the Parish Hall. Please RSVP if you plan to attend.
It is fun to see people returning to worship on Sundays. If you're not quite ready to come back, that's fine. We will be here when you are.
Thank you for all your ongoing prayers and support. We are in this together.
Grace and peace,
Pastor David
If you missed this Sunday’s sermon, click here to listen now!
