“Imitate God, therefore, in everything you do, because you are His dear children. Live a life filled with love, following the example of Christ. He loved us and offered Himself as a sacrifice for us, a pleasing aroma to God.” (Ephesians 5:1-2 NLT)
What is the worst, foulest, most offensive odor you’ve ever smelled? For me it was a visit to a rendering plant! I went to see someone, but I could hardly breathe it was so rank. Do you realize that the way we treat someone leaves a lasting aroma? Not that they can necessarily smell with their nose, but that leaves an indelible effect on their soul.
The Apostle Paul reminds us in the verses above that our responsibility as a Jesus follower is to love others, “following the example of Christ.” Have you ever wondered what love had to do with aroma? What about children who have a special “blankie?” Or a pet that gravitates to the same pillow or chair. Why? Could it be the aroma reminds them of something that brings peace, comfort, or assurance emotionally? A place of safety and security?
Have you ever met or been in the presence of someone who made such a strong impression you didn’t want your time with them to ever end? I once heard Charles (“Chuck”) Colson speak and I was mesmerized. His presentation was about an hour long, but it seemed to me like five minutes. On the other hand, I’ve heard people speak for five minutes that seemed like an hour.
What makes the difference? What’s the appeal of one over the other? Ron Hutchcraft wrote: “The fact is, we all give off some kind of fragrance with the way we treat people, and the way we handle stress, and whether we make people feel more or less important, whether we bring sunshine into a situation or clouds. This would be a good day for you to evaluate: what kind of trail, what kind of life-fragrance do I leave?
Whether we’re sweaty or sweet smelling is secondary to the impression we make on others. Having watched many episodes of The Chosen, it caused me to wonder how Jesus smelled after hours of healing and preaching under the hot sun. Is there any indication in all of Scripture that people cared how He smelled?
But imagine the “aroma” of His presence as He touched and healed the leper; opened the eyes of the blind; gave voice to the voiceless; and hope to the hopeless! Consider those to whom He spoke words of life, those who were struggling to validate their existence, or healed children of parents for whom Jesus was their only hope.
There was a Christian singing group in the 70’s that traveled widely. I had the privilege of having them come to an event I helped plan, so I got to meet the director. I’ve never smelled such horrible breath, but it didn’t hinder his effectiveness in leading the singing group. What’s my point?
As children of God, we should always present ourselves in the best possible way, but even if we smell like a fresh cut flower, if our heart is dark and “smelly,” that will matter more to the people with whom we have contact than our words. A good guide to lead us in how to treat another person is the fruit of the Spirit. Are we conveying with our words and our life the fragrance of “Love, joy, peace, patience, kindness, goodness, faithfulness, gentleness and self-control.”
Food for thought.
Blessings, Ed 😊
Walking With Jesus 