whiter than snow

My grandfather is a Baptist minister.  While on furlough breaks in the US, we would attend his church.  I remember singing the song, “Whiter than Snow” many times.  I looked up all the lyrics this morning and I was struck with verse three.

Lord Jesus, look down from Thy throne in the skies,
And help me to make a complete sacrifice;
I give up myself, and whatever I know—
Now wash me, and I shall be whiter than snow.

Ouch, Help me make a complete sacrifice.  That’s hard to do living in the USA.  Last night my dear friend, Pam, invited me to the gym I used to be a member of to work out, hang out and get some good conversation in.  We had a great time.  I came away so refreshed and jealous.

I chose to give up  my membership for this time in our lives.  There are many reasons why but it’s been a HUGE sacrifice for me.  And it does sound so silly and petty compared to the many sacrifices people make all over the world to live their faith.

I was reminded though, that there will always be a struggle to remain true to the commitments I make.  To be strong in the face of the temptation to always want just one more thing.  And my gym membership, well, not only did I use it every day, it one of the things that defined me. 

So as I am up early with two little people and look out at the most beautiful snow this morning, I sing that little chorus in my head and choose today, to offer my sacrifice.