There is little impact upon their lives nor is there a commitment, either to God or others. Today people still respond to those who make sacrifices. We appreciate the people who give of themselves totally to a cause, to a community effort, or to others. A person with AIDS who reaches out to other AIDS sufferers is seen as an example of real Christian living. The Yukon's Father Judge, the Saint of Dawson, is remembered for personally building a church and hospital and giving his life for the poor and dying prospectors.
Churches struggle to keep open, but get caught-up in a survival mode, the opposite of sacrifice.
Yet churches were built by the sacrifice of others. The Gospel was spread throughout the world through the blood of the saints. We are to die daily to sin and self, but it is also sacrificial service given in Christ's name to others. We become a servant, not the head of the pack. We minister to others, rather than being ministered to.