For we are unto God a sweet savour of Christ, in them that are saved, and in them that perish. (2 Corinthians 2:15) 

 

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 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. 

 

Heavenly Father, thank You for leading Your people in triumph and spreading the fragrance of Your truth through us. Amen 

 

When I first read this devotion I pondered this question, Who smells like Christ to you? It got me thinking, I pray after reading this devotion you desire to be a pleasing aroma of Christ to all those around you and if someone were to stop and ask themselves this very question, I pray you or I would come to mind. Today, begin spreading the fragrance of His truth through you. 

 

Have a beautiful and uplifting day in The Lord! 

 

Today’s Reading is Matthew 16:24