Lay It Down

They say lay it down but how do I lay it down?

I'm on my way to the altar and I've turned around several times

I've rationalized, hoped I'd get different instructions

When the first were all too clear

I'm fearful my burnt sacrifice will cost me dearly

But how can it not?

What is a sacrifice if it does not cost?

What is a burnt sacrifice if it does not die?

What is an offering if it is not for another?

I offer this sacrifice and pray its aroma is pleasing to my Lord

I offer it with tears and thanksgiving

I offer it with pain and release

I offer it with an assurance devoid of clarity

I offer it to my Lord

Then I look again at the sacrifice, lying on the altar

And I notice something familiar

Yes, that birthmark looks familiar

Those scars remind me of someone I know

The silhouette is all too reminiscent of someone I used to know

That sacrifice is indeed me!