If we were to contract a life-threatening illness, we might go to great lengths—spending time, effort, and money—in search of a cure. But there is a price we could never pay ourselves: the price to redeem our souls from sin. Without Jesus’ sacrifice on the cross, sin would continue to reign in our mortal bodies, leading us to its inevitable wage—death (Romans 6:23). But God, in His great mercy, demonstrated His love for us: while we were still sinners, Christ died for us (Romans 5:8).

God’s plan of salvation is indeed an immeasurable grace. Even more, He allows us to respond to His love by serving Him. This is grace upon grace—an invitation not only to receive His mercy but to live it out in our lives. In Romans 12:1, Paul exhorts us to present our bodies as a living sacrifice, holy and acceptable to God, which is our reasonable service.

How can we live as a sacrifice that is pleasing to God?

1. Maintain Holiness

In the Old Testament, sacrificial animals had to be without blemish or defect to be acceptable offerings (Leviticus 22:19–20). Likewise, as living sacrifices today, we must strive for holiness. Have we kept ourselves clean from the lust of the flesh, the lust of the eyes, and the pride of life? (1 John 2:16). These things belong to the world, but we are called to live differently—to not be conformed to this world, but to be transformed by the renewing of our minds (Romans 12:2). Only then can we discern what is the good, acceptable, and perfect will of God.

2. Know Our Gifts and Serve Accordingly

Paul warns us not to think of ourselves more highly than we ought (Romans 12:3), but we must also avoid thinking too little of ourselves. Each of us has received gifts from God, not for self-exaltation, but for the building up of the body of Christ—the Church (Romans 12:4–8). Rather than comparing or competing, let us humbly reflect on how we can use our gifts—whether in teaching, encouraging, giving, leading, or serving—to contribute to God’s work.

3. Be of the Same Mind Toward One Another

Just as the different parts of the body work together in unity, so too must we as members of Christ's body. Living in harmony may not always be easy, especially when personal preferences or conveniences get in the way. But true unity is found when we look beyond ourselves and consider the interests of others (Philippians 2:4). Being of the same mind doesn’t mean forcing uniformity—it means placing God at the center of our service, seeking His will above all, and allowing His love to guide our interactions with one another.

Conclusion

May we daily offer our lives as a living sacrifice, holy and pleasing to God. Let us not be lagging in diligence, but be fervent in spirit, serving the Lord. May we rejoice in hope, be patient in tribulation, and continue steadfastly in prayer (Romans 12:11–12).