What’s that Smell?

We bathe, we wear deodorant, wash our hair, put on perfumes and lotions, but why? Because we don’t like to smell bad or we want to smell better.

We all have odors we like to present and odors we try to cover up.

Paul writes a passage in the Bible pertaining to aromas and smells.  In comparing the times when the Romans would have “victory parades” the general would burn incense… of course to the victors this smelled sweet and brought happiness, to the losers and captives it was the smell of slavery and death.

2 Corinthians 2:14,15 Paul writes:

"But thanks be to God, who always leads us as captives in Christ’s triumphal procession and uses us to spread the aroma of the knowledge of him everywhere. For, we are to God the pleasing aroma of Christ among those who are being saved and those who are perishing."

When we accept the call to follow God and become a Christian, we take on an aroma or Smell. 

To some it’s recognizable as life and victory through Jesus Christ. To non-believers it may be a disgusting smell or even the smell of death.

Coffee has a very distinct smell. For me the smell reminds me of times with family and friends, and brings me a little boost of energy for the day. To others (who may not have had it or maybe had tried a bad cup) it is a disgusting, repulsive smell.  But once you are a coffee drinker, the smell can change its meaning.

Don’t be afraid to let off the aroma of Christ.  By our speech, our actions and our way of living we will always Smell.  Our hope should be that the aroma soon brings joy to others and brings those around us closer to God.

--adam