12/3/2015

As far as God is concerned there is a sweet, wholesome fragrance in our lives. It is the fragrance of Christ within us, an aroma to both the saved and the unsaved all around us. (2 Corinthians 2:15)

Having had Thanksgiving, and with Christmas quickly approaching the following resonates in my mind. As a body of believers are we connecting well with and loving those around us as Christ did or are we busy trying to correct the behavior, lifestyle and choices of those we encounter?  Are we entering in with the sweet fragrance of Christ and depositing it on others or are we leaving a stench to be reckoned with when we depart?  In all of scripture we see Jesus connect with those He came into contact with as he listened, engaged in conversations and loving touched the lives of those around him. His sweet aroma and ability to love well the broken is what made Him so desired, as well as, approachable. The people Jesus rebuked were the religious leaders as they were more concerned with correcting, judging and isolating others instead of connecting with them. Those religious leaders left an unmistakable stench eliminating the possibility of any kind of relationship. As I encounter people on a daily basis, I see the deep desire, need and longing to have a real connection. I know for a fact, that desire only heightens during the holiday season as stresses are triggered for most people due to unspoken, unmet, and failed expectations from the past and current. Regardless of the Christmas songs, movies and the appearance of the “perfect family gathering” there is no such thing. We live in a world with brokenness in ourselves and others so let’s stop striving for the perfect memory or moment and connect fully with those around us in that moment. Loving as Christ, changes lives not the correction we think they need. So as we enter this season, let’s connect with those we come in contact with and be the fragrant aroma of Christ making it a memorable encounter. 

Love to you all, Marcia 

How I praise you for the work you have done and continue to do Lord in and through my life. Thank you for loving me unconditionally, connecting with me in my most unlovable moments and for depositing your sweet aroma on me. Lord, enable me to love, connect and leave a sweet aroma with others. And may that aroma infuse a sincere love, a song of hope, deep grace and give birth to more of you. May my life reflect the essence of you everyday!