The word I woke up thinking about this morning was "Sacrifice".

This week has been one more week for me as a pastor. But I have seen right before my eyes this word sacrifice demonstrated in a very strong way.

I was in the room of a nursing home watching as a dear precious saint of God was taking her final breath. As I stood with the family I couldn't help but fix my eyes on the daughter and granddaughter of Ms. Elizabeth Gage and ponder the thoughts of what they have sacrificed for their loved one. Many hours away from their 'normal' routine of life to care and to love on their mom and grandma. What a picture of sacrifice I witnessed this past year as it came to a close just before midnight Wednesday night.

Earlier in the week, I was able to witness another perfect demonstration of sacrifice as a sister admitted herself into the hospital to donate one of her kidneys to save the life of her brother. What compassion she showed in giving up something as important as a vital organ of the human body. Sacrifice!

It caused me to think this morning on the ultimate sacrifice that was given. God in heaven gave up His very best when He sent His Son to this earth to die for you and me. The sacrifice of Jesus Christ who gave up His very life so that you and I could have eternal life with Him. Sacrifice!

We can get so wrapped up in this fast-paced world that we very seldom stop and think about the many sacrifices that take place around us everyday. This week has been very busy, very tiring, very demanding but also very rewarding!

Thank you Elizabeth Gage family for showing me that while sickness may not ask your permission to invade your family, you showed me how to sacrifice...

Thank you Holmes family for showing me that sacrifice can pull families together and save lives...

Thank you Jesus for the sacrifice you gave for me!