You're listening to Encounter, a simple daily podcast made possible by listeners like

you.

We hope to help you discover sacred moments in the middle of ordinary days.

If you would enjoy more seasonal and topical meditations, I encourage you to download

the encountering piece mobile app, where all of the meditations are free, as they should

be.

Sacrifice is the offering of something of value to a higher purpose.

During times of crisis, first responders seem to be at the most significant risk for sacrifice.

Doctors, nurses, firefighters, and the police are accustomed to sacrificing themselves

and putting themselves in harm's way often to protect us.

They are charged with a higher purpose of protecting the most vulnerable.

And often, they are asked to sacrifice themselves even when we knowingly put ourselves in danger.

First responders are on the scene to care for us even when we willfully wander into danger.

Will anyone ever sacrifice themselves for you and place themselves in danger to care for your

pain?

Well, the essence of this meditation from Isaiah chapter 53 is about sacrifice.

Being mindful of the life-threatening chaos around you and your constant need for rescue.

You were rescued through the sacrifice of the first responder.

So rest here as we begin.

Get comfortable as you settle deeper into where you are and begin to become aware of your

breathing as you allow your eyes to softly start to close now without effort.

You will be together for about 15 minutes but allow me to mine that time and want you

...