Jesus called Himself the Good Shepherd. Then He said a good shepherd gives up his life for the sheep.

We know that he was talking about His coming crucifixion, but I believe He was also talking about His life.

We think about sacrificing our lives as dying. But what if it means more?

What if it means the dying to self Jesus talks about? What if it means instead of going out to do what I want, I choose to stay home and do laundry for my family? What if it means instead of watching TV, I choose to color pictures with my grandchildren? What if it means instead of going for a long hike in the mountains, I choose to help a family member clean house or wash a car or just sit and talk with them?

What if sacrificing our lives really means giving up our wants and desires to serve our “sheep” — our family?

We are such a me-first society, and sadly, that has reached into the Church as well. Seemingly gone are the days when the church leadership could say, “We need someone to …..” and a dozen people would volunteer on the spot. Now it seems that people are more concerned with whether or not they feel like doing it or if it fits their lifestyle that in helping where needed.

Sometimes we do things that need done just because they need doing.

Confession: I am not the one who will generally take up the dust rag and mop to clean the church. I’m much better behind the computer keys and in prayer. But if something came up that the regular dusters and moppers couldn’t, I’d take up the rag and mop and get it done. Not my thing, but meeting a need doesn’t have to be my thing.

Believers, we need to stop robbing ourselves of blessings by saying no to everything the church needs done. Whether it’s serving in the nursery or teaching some preschoolers or encouraging some youth, we can stand in the gap for those who need a break. Who knows, we might find out that that is exactly where we were supposed to be all along.

Sacrificing our lives for our “sheep” is living like Jesus.

Coffee, Bible, Journal.