A woman interrupted the discussion in Relief Society about what things the Lord asks us to sacrifice (typical answers such as time, talents, tithing, etc.) to make a comment that boiled down to the following:
1) The Latin root of the word indicates that things sacrificed are not merely given up “for the cause,” but are instead sanctified and made holy.
2) When we sacrifice something for the Lord’s sake, whatever it may be, we are using what He has given us to accomplish something holier and more sacred that we might otherwise.
Simple example: The money I might have used to buy myself some Indian takeout and an iPod is instead used to help build a temple.
So while my brother is sacrificing two years of his life to serve a mission to the good people of northern Utah, he is sanctifying those two years, making himself and all he does holy and blessed as he goes about God’s work. The financial sacrifices my parents make to enable him to serve in this way are not about spending less on car payments or clothing but about spending more to bless the lives of God’s children.
All the time youth leaders could use to watch “Modern Family” (one of the best shows currently on television!) on Wednesday nights is instead spent strengthening the testimonies of young men and young women around the world. All the sumptuous Sunday morning breakfasts (the most important meal of the day!) that go unmade and uneaten the first of every month are instead given to families who feel fortunate to have anything at all to feed their children. All the time older couples spend away from grandchildren and great-grandchildren (the darling little people you want to spoil and snuggle all the time!) is instead spent giving service, providing medical and humanitarian aid, and preaching the gospel around the world.
The time, talents, and tithes we give the Lord are exalted to greater and holier purposes than we could ever give them.
When we give our very selves to the Lord, the same thing happens. We are sanctified. Purified. Exalted.
And when we think about it that way, it’s not a sacrifice at all, is it?
True sacrifice is really more of a trade. 10 points to whoever this commenter was.
i'm all for sacrifice, just glad i have a dvr.
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Well put.
(Though now I wonder if you've uncovered the reason our ward switched Mutual to Tuesdays.)