The Aroma of Heaven

     Now he uses us to spread the knowledge of Christ everywhere,
like a sweet perfume. 15 Our lives are a Christ-like fragrance
rising up to God. …16 … But to those who are being saved,
we are a life-giving perfume.”
     2 Corinthians 2:14-17 NLT

Science tells us that smells bring back the memories associated with them. We are entering a season of some of our favorite smells.  At Thanksgiving, they may be our family’s traditional dinner of roasting turkey and pumpkin pie.  What memories are triggered for you by the smell of live pine trees, your favorite Christmas cookies, fresh fallen snow or your favorite Christmas food?

Paul tells us in 2 Corinthians 2 that we are to be a life-giving perfume, a Christ-like fragrance as we reflect God’s glory to the people around us.  Like an aroma they will remember us and, if they are being saved, be strengthened and encouraged.  But if they are not being saved, don’t be surprised if they reject us as a dreadful smell that reminds them of death.
 
Are we godly enough to remind people of Jesus?  Paul ends verse 16 by agreeing with his readers, “And who is adequate for such a task as this?”  If you are like me, we may think, “Not me!”  But keep reading because he reminds us that we have had the veil that blocks people’s understanding of God’s Word removed.  Now we have the ability and the authority to be used by God to bring his Kingdom to earth.  We are truly the sweet perfume that remind people that they have eternal hope.

So, let’s trust that God can use us this holiday season to remind our families, friends, and strangers alike, even by our very presence, that Jesus loves them.  May they believe that God is real and wants us to understand and remember who he is and what he has done to ensure our salvation and eternal destiny.  Jesus Christ has come to save and restore the lost, and he will return again to bring us home.

Dear friends, may you rejoice this holiday season in who God created you to become and be truly thankful for the role he has called you to.  May you overflow with God’s love, peace and joy as you reflect the glory and spread the sweet aroma of Jesus Christ.  You can do that!  Remember who is living in you.  Amen.

Mary Sumner ~ November 26, 2024