You’ve probably heard the story of the chicken and the pig walking down the road. They see a starving beggar and decide to help. The chicken says, “Let’s make him breakfast—ham and eggs!” The pig pauses and replies, “That may be a contribution for you, but for me, it’s a total sacrifice!”

That humorous little fable highlights a serious spiritual truth. When the Apostle Paul begins Romans 12, he shifts from doctrine to application. After explaining the depths of God's mercy and the power of salvation through Jesus, Paul tells believers how to respond: by offering ourselves as living sacrifices. Not partial. Not convenient. Total.

God doesn’t just ask for a donation of our time or a portion of our resources—He asks for our whole lives. He wants transformation, not just participation. Paul urges us to reject the pattern of this world and instead be transformed by a renewed mind. Only then can we discern God’s will and live in alignment with His purpose.

As Gateway moves forward in faith during this season, we’re not just inviting people to make contributions—we’re calling each other to full surrender. That’s the kind of offering that pleases God.

Reflection Question:

In this season of vision and sacrifice, are you making a contribution, or are you truly offering yourself as a living sacrifice?

Prayer Focus:

Pray that Gateway would be a church of fully surrendered people—men and women who are not content with surface-level commitment but are willing to lay everything before God. Ask Him to transform our hearts and renew our minds so we can walk in His good, pleasing, and perfect will.