Thankful for Sacrifice
Matthew 26:27-28
Then He took the cup, and after giving thanks, He gave it to them and said, “Drink from it all of you. For this is My blood that establishes the covenant; it is shed for many for the forgiveness of sins.”
Jesus gave thanks for the cup, which represented His own blood. After He gave thanks for it, He gave it to the disciples. He was about to endure the most agonizing pain known to man, yet He gave thanks for the sacrifice He must pay. How often are we able to thank God for the sacrifices we make?
Sacrifices are the places where we die to ourselves so others may benefit. They are uncomfortable places where we give until it hurts. Jesus was thankful for the cup, and he taught His disciples to be thankful for it, too. Jesus knew what His sacrifice would do for them and for others, and He was thankful for what it would accomplish – a new covenant with forgiveness for sins.
The sacrifices we make are designed to accomplish something. If we can see the good that will come of it, we can have thankful hearts. Just as Jesus looked ahead to what would be from His pain, we must do the same. What will your sacrifice ultimately do if successful? Be thankful you can contribute to God’s kingdom in some way.
We sacrifice our time and our resources. Are they doing anything to build God’s kingdom? Be thankful. We may sacrifice things so our loved ones can be blessed. Be thankful you have the opportunity to bless. Many have sacrificed their lives so we can be free. Be thankful someone was willing to make the sacrifice. A thankful heart should be both joyful yet sober of the sacrifice made and the one who gave. Thankfulness leads to peace and contentment. We all need a little more of that.
Have a blessed day!