December 20

to be a minister of Christ Jesus to the Gentiles in the priestly service of the gospel of God, so that the Gentiles might become an offering acceptable to God, sanctified by the Holy Spirit. — Rom 15:16 BSB

This is a beautiful and practical view of missionary work. There's a big difference between being consecrated to the work and being consecrated to God. We can be fully dedicated to doing our work, even missionary work, and still fail if God calls us to something else. But when we are consecrated to Him, we will be ready for whatever He asks, whether it’s standing by a sickbed, taking care of daily duties at home, or preaching in a pulpit.

Paul’s idea was that his work was a holy offering, directly offered to Christ. He saw himself as a priest, standing at the altar of incense, lifting up the Gentile nations to God, offering everything he did like sweet-smelling incense to the Lord, only satisfied if it pleased his Master and passed His approval on the final day.

This is the true spirit of service.