Sacrifice

As a mom, a wife, and someone who works in children’s ministry, I often find myself in seasons where time feels scarce, energy runs low, and the demands of life press in from all directions. Maybe you’ve felt that too. In those moments, the word sacrifice can sound heavy—like one more thing on an already full plate. But over time, God has gently reshaped how I view sacrifice. It’s not just about what we give up; it’s about who we’re becoming and who we’re walking with as we follow Jesus.

Jesus made the ultimate sacrifice for us, and in doing so, He gave us the most beautiful invitation: “Come, follow Me.” That invitation is at the heart of discipleship. It’s not just a call to believe—it’s a call to become like Him. And becoming like Jesus always involves sacrifice. Not just the big, dramatic moments, but the small, daily choices that shape our hearts and lives.

The truth is, we can all make room to sacrifice—no matter our age, our job, or our season of life. A teenager can sacrifice their time to encourage a younger student. A college student can choose to disciple someone instead of isolating. A busy parent can invite another family into their home for a shared meal. A retiree can mentor someone walking through a life transition. Sacrifice doesn’t require perfection—it just requires a willing heart.

What’s more, when we live in disciplemaking relationships, we learn how to sacrifice together. We learn how to say, “Follow me as I follow Christ.” We challenge one another, encourage one another, and carry each other’s burdens. This is how no one walks alone.

I’ve seen this firsthand in children’s ministry. When a volunteer shows up week after week—even when they’re tired or juggling other commitments—they are modeling Jesus to our kids. When a parent asks how to pray with their child at home, they’re planting seeds of faith. 

These small acts—these daily sacrifices—are where discipleship is born.

So let’s ask ourselves:

Where can I make room to sacrifice?

Who can I invest in?

Who am I walking with?

Who am I discipling—and who is discipling me?

Because discipleship isn’t a program—it’s a way of life. It’s the way Jesus transformed hearts then, and it’s how He still transforms hearts now.

Let’s be people who say yes to the hard and holy work of sacrifice. Let’s make room in our lives so others can find room in theirs to meet Jesus.