When does a gift become a sacrifice? Are all gifts sacrifices?
The bread and wine taken to the altar seem to be referred to more as "gifts" rather than sacrifices. Yet, in his prayer, as he stands behind the gifts that were just brought to the altar, the priest prays that "my sacrifice and yours may be acceptable to God, the almighty Father."
We can give a gift to someone just to be nice, even if we don't really know them or even if we don't like them, but we sacrifice for those we love.
There may be days ahead when we need to decide if we're willing to be a sacrifice for God. A sacrifice given in love is a most perfect gift.
Thanks for praying with me!
Julie
This week's links:
Suscipe, St. Ignatius of Loyola
The Mass: VIII - Liturgy of the Eucharist - Offertory