June 6 -- "What’s That Smell?"

Today's Reading: Ephesians 5

Some things emit a pleasant aroma—flowers, citrus, fresh coffee, and grilled steak. Others, like rotting garbage or sewage, release a stench. In the same way, our spiritual lives carry a spiritual scent—one that either reflects Christ or repels His presence. A spiritual odor isn’t something you detect with your nose—it’s something you sense with your soul. It’s the atmosphere a life carries, the unseen fragrance of a heart devoted to Christ or, conversely, one steeped in sin.

A life filled with God’s love, grace, and righteousness spreads an uplifting spiritual fragrance, drawing others toward Him. But sin and rebellion emit a spiritual stench—like bitterness, deceit, and selfishness, repelling rather than attracting.

Ephesians 5:2 tells us that love—Christ’s ἀγάπη agape love—is the sweet aroma of a transformed life. Just as Christ gave Himself as a fragrant offering to God, we are called to follow His example—radiating grace, kindness, and sacrificial love. Paul’s imagery of a “fragrant offering” reflects Old Testament worship, where the smoke of sacrifices rose to God like a soothing aroma.

What “scent” lingers after people encounter you? Do they breathe in the fragrance of grace or catch a bitter whiff of pride, selfishness, or anger? Imagine your life as an offering. Does it carry the unmistakable scent of Christ’s love? Living in His love captivates hearts and magnifies the beauty of the Gospel.

Love changes everything. How often do we hesitate to extend kindness or patience because we fear losing something—our time, comfort, or pride? Christ’s love frees us from those fears. Reflecting on His sacrifice empowers us to love without reservation. Love becomes the language of our lives, shaping our words, interactions, and smallest gestures toward family, coworkers, and strangers.

The fragrance of a life devoted to Christ isn’t something we produce in our own strength—it’s the work of the Holy Spirit within us. Just as incense rises in worship, the Spirit infuses our hearts with His presence, shaping our attitudes, refining our character, and filling us with the aroma of love. When we yield to the Holy Spirit, He cultivates a fragrance that attracts and refreshes those around us—a scent that whispers of grace, radiates peace, and testifies to Christ’s love.

May the Lord fill your heart with His love, guide your steps with His grace, and transform your life into a beautiful offering that glorifies Him. May the fragrance of Christ in your life be bold, beautiful, and unmistakable!