June 30, 2018 - - II Corinthians 2:15-16 What do you smell like?

For we are the aroma of Christ to God among those who are being saved and among those who are perishing, to one a fragrance from death to death, to the other a fragrance from life to life. Who is sufficient to such things?

II Corinthians 2:15-16 ESV

This morning I lit my PARTYLITE candle which I received as a gift from Julie Hilarides. It has a great aroma which immediately reminds me of my recent visit with our dear friends. It makes me smile just to uncover the lid of the three wick candle and catch the faint fragrance before the wicks are lit and the full, warm scent fills the room.

Oddly, my wife, Carolyn, does not like this particular smell. For her there is a particular note which reminds her of a long time ago perfume that was particularly annoying.

You immediately notice the difference. I breathe in deeply and enjoy the fragrance. Carolyn wants to cover her nose. I smile and remember so many good things as the aroma wafts around me. Carolyn crinkles her nose and waits for me to shut the door.

Christ is the scent of life--a beautiful aroma and pleasing fragrance to those who love Him. Other Christians recognize the allegiance we have to Christ and are drawn to one another. Those who hate Christ inevitably shrink back and cover their noses and react badly. Christians ought not be surprised at this reaction. Instead, we are to pray: God the Father help them to know Jesus Christ as the Lord of Life and the fragrance of life.

King Jesus, blessed be Your Name for the life You give us as beloved sons and daughters of God. This life You have given us at the cross, when in our place You endured the just anger of God and His punishment against sin. Let our lives be a sweet fragrance to fellow believers, that by word and deed we may bring honour to You. We pray for those who find our love for You repugnant. Spirit of the Living God, change their hearts so that they may recognize in us the aroma of life and blessing. Spirit of God bring many of our friends and family members to glory in Christ so that the world and its pleasures may be revealed as stinking garbage and the wonders of Christ as the sweet smell of joyous life. Amen.