New Life

New Life/Following Christ/Sacrifice - they all point to something that only becomes real when we give ourselves away. The transformation of ourselves doesn't happen until we bring to the table something of ourselves that is both valuable, vulnerable, and tangible.

I can start with money, or I can start with something very personal within myself. I can start by giving some time that is valuable to me in some other way. It's not giving away the "free time" or the "extra money" or making a "hobby" out of some kind of charity. True transformation comes from sacrifice. But that one sacrifice is not the end, but the beginning to the path of relationship.

Because when we give away something of value to ourselves, we must depend upon God to replenish so that we may give again. Life in God's Kingdom is a life of giving and a life of giving away even more than is comfortable to give. At that point we find ourselves in need. That is a good place to be in, because in our need we find God's provision. The needy need God. God make me needy. Or rather, God let me see my need for You, and respond by giving away all that I have so that You can fill me up again. Like the shampoo bottle..."Wash, Rinse, Repeat".