Sacrifices Pleasing to God
Day 33 – 27 Mar (Fri)
“Through him then let us continually offer up a sacrifice of praise to God, that is, the fruit of lips that acknowledge his name.” Hebrews 13:15
Bookended by the phrase “Do not neglect” (Hebrews 13:2, 16), this inclusio passage is filled with instructions and exhortations to live generously, ethically, and honourably.
Yet it must be understood within the broader message of Hebrews. These are not mere rules, but the outward expression of hearts transformed by grace. “To do good” is a command that echoes throughout Scripture—not a suggestion, but a call to action and sacrifice that reflects the very nature of Christ, whose life embodied goodness.
The reminder that “such sacrifices are pleasing to God” assures us that acts of love, compassion, and generosity—especially toward the marginalised and the hurting—never escape God’s notice.
For many of us, however, the idea of sacrifice can feel daunting. It often requires our time, energy, and resources, and calls us out of our comfort zones. In our busy lives, it can feel inconvenient.
I am deeply thankful for our faith family in COA and for what God is doing among us. It is a joy to learn, serve, and grow together. Yet if we look more closely, we may notice that certain areas—especially behind-the-scenes ministries—are sustained by just a faithful few. These are often the very places we hesitate to step into, perhaps because they seem inconvenient or unseen.
As we reflect on the life of our Saviour, we are confronted with His ultimate sacrifice. If Christ gave His life as a ransom for us, what then about me? What about you?
During this Lenten season, may the Lord open our eyes to opportunities to do good, to step forward in service, and to embody His unconditional love.
In 2 Samuel 24:24, we are reminded that true worship carries a cost. David refused to offer to God a sacrifice that cost him nothing. This same truth is captured in the song “I Will Not Offer Anything That Costs Me Nothing,” written by Donald Koch and Niles Borop:
I will not offer anything that costs me nothing
I’ll place before Him nothing less than my very best
And if I’m called to sacrifice
It will be worthy of my Christ
I will not offer anything that costs me nothing
(https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=X9VMbCAqIsk)
What kind of holy and acceptable worship are we offering to the Lord?
May our lives be marked by such costly, willing sacrifices, as we seek to please Him in all that we do.
Vincent Lim🙏✝️
PCC Member