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13/01/2022 03:00 - 14/01/2022 02:00

“For we are to God the fragrance of Christ among those who are being saved and among those who are perishing” - 2 Cor 2:15 (NIV). 

Fragrances, or what is commonly known as perfumes, have a rich history that dates back to ancient times. They go back to over 4,000 years, and have been found in almost all great world civilizations. They mostly consist of mixtures of oil and crushed herbs or petals, which make a strong and moving scent.

Writing to the believers in Corinth, the Apostle Paul noted to them that there is a different kind of fragrance, than one of oils, expected to lead us. He refers ours as a triumphant journey to “ spread the aroma of the knowledge of him everywhere” (vv 14). And further points out that ours is “an aroma that brings life” (vv 16). Wherever we go we take the “Good News” of the risen Christ, which is the aroma of life.

In ancient Europe the use of perfumes has been linked to infrequent bathing, especially among the wealthy class, who would splash them all over themselves to mask body odour. Our bodies when not cleansed with fresh water or moistened have a tendency to produce an odour that makes unpleasant company. That’s where a fragrance can become useful. It clears that nasty smell and makes us attractive.

In like manner, wherever we happen to be, there is a repugnant odour of death, for those that have no knowledge of Christ. They are lost. But by sharing the Good News, we become the pleasing aroma, bringing to them life.

Today, let us take that aroma of life, wherever we find ourselves that Christ is risen, and has come to give abundant life to all that believe in Him. “The thief comes only to steal and kill and destroy; I have come that they may have life, and have it to the full” (John 10:10).

Prayer for today: Lord Father God of Abraham, maker of heaven and earth, today I take with me the aroma of life, sharing the Good News that brings life, to the lost, this I pray in Jesus’s name.

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