CONSECRATION

The act of setting apart, or dedicating, something or someone for God's use. (New Illustrated Bible Dictionary)Rom 12:1-2 (ESV) I appeal to you therefore, brothers, by the mercies of God, to present your bodies as a living sacrifice, holy and acceptable to God, which is your spiritual worship. Do not be conformed to this world, but be transformed by the renewal of your mind, that by testing you may discern what is the will of God, what is good and acceptable and perfect.What does it mean to truly set yourself apart from God? What would your life look like if you did such a thing? I am not just talking about doing more good or less evil, but truly presenting yourself as a living sacrifice to God. What if you truly sought "what is good and acceptable and perfect."After what will always be remembered as one of my favorite turkey days ever I am reminded again that the calling on my life is to be someone who truly sets himself apart for God. Yesterday Cassie and I had the privilege of spending Thanksgiving with our friends "The Gilberts." We watched The Contender, deep fried a turkey (totally redneck, and I totally dug it), laughed at stories from our pasts, taught Zeke and Mason how to box (and even had a round between Josh and I to "show the boys what real boxing was" :-), and just had an all around incredible time.And now, I am again left with wonderful memories, and even more hope that the God we serve has even more of such great times in store for us down the road. Isn't it amazing that two families that have known each other less than 2 months, can come together in a church rented home in a city that neither one of us even knew existed 2 years ago, and celebrate Thanksgiving just as if we were all right at home? All because a handful of people have said, "Please Lord, consecrate my life for you."