The Bible In One Year: Proverbs 6-7/2 Corinthians 2
Today’s Reading: 2
Corinthians 2:14-17 – For we are to God the pleasing aroma of Christ among those
who are being saved. ~2 Corinthians 2:15
They Smelled Like
Christ
Hot and dusty, Bob dismounted from the bus he had ridden to
a city far from home. He was tired from a long day of travel and grateful that
he would be able to have dinner with friends of friends who lived in the area. They
welcomed him in, and he immediately felt a sense of peace. He felt at home, comfortable,
safe, and valued.
Later, wondering why he had felt such peace in an unfamiliar
place, Bob found an answer in 2 Corinthians. The apostle Paul describes people
who follow God as having the “pleasing aroma of Christ.” “That’s exactly it!”
Bob said to himself. His hosts had “smelled like” Christ.
When Paul says that God leads His people in Christ’s “triumphal
procession” spreading the fragrance of His truth, he’s referring to a practice
in the ancient world. Victorious armies would burn incense as they marched
through the streets. For their supporters, the smell brought joy. In the same
way, Paul says the people of God carry a pleasing fragrance to those who
believe. It isn’t something we create on our own but something God gives as He
gives as He leads us in spreading the knowledge of Him.
Bob is my dad, and that trip to a faraway town took place
more than forty years ago, but he’s never forgotten it. He’s still telling the
story of the people who smelled like Christ. ~Amy Peterson
Heavenly Father, thank
You for leading Your people in triumph and spreading the fragrance of Your
Truth through us.
Who smells like
Christ to you?
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