Rochester, MN UCC - "A Sacrifice of Praise" - Hebrews 13:1-8, 15-16

The letter to the Hebrews is famous for making the case that Jesus’ sacrifice of himself for human sin makes all other temple sacrifices unnecessary. We have all received forgiveness through Jesus’ death and resurrection so there is no need to continue sacrificing animals as offerings for sin.

 However, Paul does not wish to do away with the concept of sacrifice entirely- he still believes that following Jesus should require something of us, it should call us to sacrifice. One way Paul describes this ongoing need to sacrifice is with the words “sacrifice of praise.” Praise is simply speaking of the greatness of God and of the blessings that God has bestowed upon us. So in what way is praise a sacrifice?

 To praise God is to recognize God as greater than you and deserving of your praise. In praising God, you are sacrificing the notion that you are the most powerful, most important, most moral, entity in the universe and recognizing that these are true only of God. Praising God also reminds us of the countless gifts and blessings God has placed in our lives. In calling us to gratitude, praising God also helps us to sacrifice the delusion that we have earned all that we have of our own accord. Finally, praising God for the free gifts God has given to us, inspires us to live our lives as sacrifices to God, doing as God does, loving freely, giving generously, and forgiving often. This Sunday in worship we will join our voices in a sacrifice of praise to God, remembering how our Great God has forgiven and loved us, and seeking inspiration to go forth and do the same!

 ~ Rev. Andrew Greenhaw