The Fragrance of Christ

What are some of the smells that bring you back to a certain memory most sharply? For me, it could be a greasy jumbo cheeseburger from the Dairy in Waldo; the faint fragrance of salt water the first time I got to see the Atlantic Ocean – and even on Columbus Day weekend, I did play in the water briefly; overpowering my lithe body with either Nautica or Joop cologne in high school to attract the fairer sex as any other clueless boy would; fried catfish; sweat from a serious run of intramural or recreational basketball in college; and my current favorite, the new car scent.

Paul reminded the Corinthians that we are the aroma of Christ:  For we are to God the pleasing aroma of Christ” (Romans 2:15). He may have been referring to the Roman victory parades. The Romans made sure that everyone knew that they had been victorious in battle – and for the captors, their fates were either an expected slavery or death. As believers, we are the victorious soldiers and when the gospel of Christ is preached, it is a truly pleasing fragrance to God.

As the aroma of Christ, what perfumes do Christians bring with them as they walk into a room? Hint:  It’s not something that can be bottled up or purchased from the jewelry counter in a department store. When we spend a lot of time with someone, we began to pick up his or her actions. Spending time with Jesus will help us spread a pleasing fragrance to those around us.

When we walk with God, people will notice.