In the life of the apostle Paul, we can see how sacrifice can be costly, life-threatening, and physical. While in a Roman prison, with the threat of execution over his head, Paul could say, “I eagerly expect and hope that I will in no way be ashamed but will have sufficient courage so that now as always Christ will be exalted in my body, whether by life or by death.”

As far as Paul knew, his heart was right with God. But he talks about exalting Jesus “in my body.” He knew he could have his head cut off. He could be fed to the lions. He could be stoned to death. The Romans had a whole repertoire of horrific ways to execute people. But Paul says, “I don’t know what to choose – life or death.” Which would you choose? Paul honestly struggled with whether to accept martyrdom or earnestly pray for release from prison. He had given up his body and his soul to Jesus.

Most of us don’t live under the threat of martyrdom. So, for those of us who live in relative safety, perhaps giving over our body means sacrificing our fears about sickness and death and living with joy and peace about what is to come. Our bodies get older and fall apart, but the joy of the Lord can, and should be, our strength. Sacrificing our fears will be a great witness to those around us; what better way to spread the joy of the Lord and reach our world for Christ?

This is Luis Palau.