Sacrifice – Sacrifice At Personal Cost (365/77)
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What would it cost you to say “yes” to God?
For young Mary, that question became real very quickly. As she looked forward to her upcoming marriage to Joseph, the angel Gabriel appeared with a startling message—she had been chosen by God to bear His Son. What sounded like favour also carried great cost.
For Mary, this meant facing misunderstanding and possible shame. Her reputation could be questioned, her future uncertain. Later, Simeon would also prophesy that a sword would pierce her own soul (Luke 2:35), pointing to the deep sorrow she would experience as the mother of the Messiah, when she would stand near the cross and watch her Son suffer and die (John 19:25).
Yet before all of that unfolded, the angel waited for her response. In a moment that would shape history, Mary said, “Behold the maidservant of the Lord! Let it be to me according to your word.” (Luke 1:38, NKJV)
Mary did not know all that lay ahead. She willingly accepted the sacrifice of reputation, comfort, and even deep personal pain in order to obey God’s call on her life.
Her story ultimately points us to Christ. The Child she carried would one day willingly lay down His life for the salvation of the world.
Pause and Ponder
Are there sacrifices you hesitate to make because of the pain or uncertainty involved?
What sacrifice might living for Christ require of you today?
Whom can you encourage today to trust God even when obedience feels costly?
God often works His greatest purposes through hearts that are willing to say “yes” to Him.
Lord, like Paul, give me the courage to remain faithful. Shape my heart to care for others, and help me trust that every sacrifice made for You is never in vain. Amen.
2 Corinthians 11:23-28
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