When I think about the role God's people, the church, are to play in the grand scheme of reality, the idea of sacrificial commitment is never far from my mind. In today's installment of my Messages About Purpose and Strategy, I'll share some personal experiences to illustrate the point that sacrifice pays off.

Recently I've made several sacrifices for my sons. Parents know what I'm talking about. Here are a few samples: I went to see my oldest at his job site. I used most of my day off to take my second son surfing and out to lunch. I went to a cross-country meet to see my third son run. And I went to the youngest one's soccer game. All four trips were time consuming and inconvenient. I easily could've thought of all the more important things I had to do. But sacrifice pays off. I'd jump at the chance to make similar choices again. Why? Because in each case I received so much more than I invested! The oldest let me know how much it meant to him. How often do we get to hear the words, "Thanks, I love you Dad." The second talked about vocational concerns and I'm always proud when he orders at the restaurant in Thai! I couldn't understand him, but he told me he added, "I know my dad's white, but he really does want his noodle dish as hot as you can possibly make it." (And the races and games we watch are always worth it, too.)

I can't remember ever thinking that I was sorry to give my kids time. It is the same way with serving at church. Do a cost/benefit analysis. You'll find that there is joy in sacrifice.