Our scripture this morning is Romans 12:1-2.
Therefore I urge you, brethren, by the mercies of God, to present your bodies a living and holy sacrifice, acceptable to God, which is your spiritual service of worship. And do not be conformed to this world, but be transformed by the renewing of your mind, so that you may prove what the will of God is, that which is good and acceptable and perfect.
Paul teaches an important lesson in the beginning of this section, that we are to “present your bodies a living and holy sacrifice.” We are what God wants more than anything! This means giving our lives to Him and sharing His love with the world while we are in it.
Later in this chapter Paul compares each of us as part of the body of Christ to parts of the human body, how each has a specific function, as we each have specific spiritual gifts to share with others. We are each called to discover what our role is in the kingdom and then use what we have been given to accomplish it.
Paul warns that the world is a hard place, but rather than “be conformed to this world” we are to “be transformed by the renewing of your mind.” In Philippians 2:5 he writes “Let this mind be in you which was also in Christ.” We have God’s word in scripture to teach us, Jesus Christ as our Savior and example, and the Holy Spirit as His presence with us.
Gracious God, renew our minds that we may be the people You intend, ready to fulfill our part in Your work. Bless us to be energetic bearers of Your love. Amen.
