Ephesians 5:1-2 Follow God’s example, therefore, as dearly loved children and walk in the way of love, just as Christ loved us and gave himself up for us as a fragrant offering and sacrifice to God.
In this verse, Paul describes a fragrant offering to God not so much as a scent but as evidence that our lives are to be lived obediently to be like Christ, who was the sacrifice for us all. I think we all have memories that we associate with certain fragrances. There are certain scents that we associate with places and people in our lives. I can still recall the perfume that my first-grade teacher wore (Chanel No. 5) because she left a lasting impact on my life. She was loving and kind and gave great hugs. To a little girl with a home life devoid of love, I cherish the memories of a teacher who cared and let me literally cling to her soft arms especially during one particular big thunderstorm. (A funny story about first grade that gave my teacher quite a laugh was one day in September, she announced it was a Jewish holiday and our Jewish friends would be staying home that day. I raised my hand and told her that I would be going home for lunch and not returning in the afternoon because I was half-Jewish!) Does anyone else remember walking home from school for lunch in the old days?
Do we consider that our words, actions, and thoughts should reflect Christ to those around us that need to see and experience His love? Are people drawn to us by our words and actions or do we make them question that we represent Christ in our lives? The sacrifice of leaving a lasting aroma of Christ’s love is evident as we forgive others, as we serve others, and as we love others around us. May this season of lent be a time to remember to be a fragrant offering of thanks to our Lord and our conviction to follow his example with the gifts that He has given us to share His message of love and salvation with others.
To add to this theme, I would like to quote my favorite songwriter, Carole King from her Tapestry album, “You’ve got to get up every morning with a smile on your face and show the world all the love in your heart. Then people are going to treat you better, you’re going to find, yes you will, that you’re beautiful as you feel.”