I beseech you therefore, brethren, by the mercies of God, that ye present your bodies a living sacrifice, holy, acceptable unto God, which is your reasonable service.
Although God may call some of His children to make the ultimate sacrifice as martyrs, most of us He calls to a life of service and self-denial. We are to be a “living sacrifice,” offered to God fully but to live for Him rather than die. And this, Paul tells us, is but our “reasonable service,” not some above and beyond call to “extra” service.
And we pray:
Help me, O Lord, to live every day, hour, and moment fully for You, not simply pursuing my own selfish desires. May I not count it unreasonable to serve You with all of my life. May I not grumble and complain over things sacrificed for the sake of Your Kingdom, but surrender all things joyfully that You may require. I pray in Jesus’ name, Amen.