2 Corinthians 2:15-16 Because of Christ, we give off a sweet scent rising to God, which is recognized by those on the way of salvation—an aroma redolent with life. But those on the way to destruction treat us more like the stench from a rotting corpse. This is a terrific responsibility. [MSG]
Writer Bob Goff encourages us to “be the cookies” in other people’s lives. Like the tantalizing smell of freshly baked cookies, he says to let our kindness and hope fill a room with the fragrance of Christ. I get it. Nothing says all-is-right-with-the-world to me like the scent of warm chocolate chip cookies. (Freshly baked bread runs a close second).
It’s interesting to me that Paul describes our Christian walk as an aroma. Studies show the sense of smell reignites memories more than any of the other senses. So when we exude the “aroma of Christ” we facilitate a lasting impression. Paul says it’s a “terrific responsibility” to emanate this fragrance of life.
So how do we do that?
One way is to nurture gratitude, first in ourselves, and then with other people. I recently heard the lead singer from the band, Rend Collective, give testimony of how he overcame depression and negativity. Every day, he wrote down five things he was thankful for. Then the next day, five more, then five more…. He could not repeat any of his entries, so after a few weeks, he began looking for positives throughout the day.
I told his story to a friend who struggles with negativity. When she began describing a particular bothersome situation, I didn’t just dismiss her concerns. Instead, I shared with her some positive ways to view it. By the time we ended our conversation, we were both finding facets of the situation to be thankful for.
Thank you, Lord, for letting me be a warm cookie.
God has assigned us to help others find a reprieve from the tired, weary smells of the world. The hope, kindness and comfort that pours out from the aroma of Christ offers far more than looking at life through rose-colored glasses.
Friend, I pray you walk in the fragrance of Christ-life. And that you will be that freshly baked cookie to someone you meet today.