Aroma

The concept of aroma holds a rich, spiritual significance throughout the Bible. It represents the impact of one’s life and deeds before God, likened to a fragrance that rises to heaven. In 2 Corinthians 2:14-15, Paul writes, “But thanks be to God, who always leads us as captives in Christ’s triumphal procession and uses us to spread the aroma of the knowledge of Him everywhere. For we are to God the pleasing aroma of Christ among those who are being saved and those who are perishing.”  This verse gives us a profound insight into our lives as followers of Christ: we are called to be His sweet-smelling fragrance in the world.

An aroma does not go unnoticed. It fills a space and makes its presence known—whether good or bad. In ancient times, incense and burnt offerings created a pleasing aroma to the Lord, symbolizing worship and the surrender of the heart. Genesis 8:21 tells us that after Noah’s sacrifice, the Lord “smelled the pleasing aroma”. Today, as believers, our “aroma” is reflected not through physical offerings but through our lives. Our love, kindness, faith, and obedience rise to God as a spiritual fragrance.

The challenge lies in asking ourselves daily: what kind of fragrance are we exuding? Do our actions reflect the character of Christ, filling the spaces around us with hope and love, or do we give off something less pleasing? It’s not about perfection, but about allowing Jesus to work in and through us. (Phil. 2:13)

When we live for God, our aroma also reaches others. Paul says we are the aroma of Christ to those who are being saved and those who are perishing. To some, our fragrance brings life and hope; to others, it may challenge or convict. Yet, we are called to reflect Christ no matter the response, trusting that His fragrance through us has the power to transform hearts.

As we go about our day, may we think of our life as a spiritual offering. Through acts of love and obedience, may our life rise as a pleasing aroma to God—a reminder of His grace and a testimony of His love to the world.  And a special thanks to you who stand with us in taking this aroma to the mission field.  Here is a brief update on one way you are spreading the aroma of the knowledge of Him, this time with More Milk Goats for Widows.

It is such an honor to partner as believers to bring REAL help and hope to those most in need.

We are so thankful for your prayers and support.  On our side of the pond, one woman made a donation in the name of two of her friends – and had the goats named after them! Another couple decided to donate a milk goat as their valentine gift to each other this year.  Aren’t those creative ways to give?

In Kenya, we are so thankful for Moses and Isaac who work with the widows to identify those who are MOST in need and are ready and would benefit most from the donation of a milk goat. And Moses, being a veterinarian by training, knows how to pick the best milk goats at the best prices and help the widows keep them healthy and producing.

And giving a milk goat to a widow is not just a simple one time donation of a resource.  It’s more like giving her a part time job, providing ongoing income.  In order to get the nutritious milk, the widows have to care for it, feed it, milk it and keep it from eating things it shouldn’t. And the widows agree from the beginning, that they will give away the first two female offspring to other widows in need in the network.  As God has been generous to them, they are eager and excited to be generous to others.

This is a beautiful, tangible illustration of the gospel.  It is a true partnership, with each voluntarily doing what they are able. When we were helpless, God generously gave us His Son to save us. He then offers us the opportunity to partner with Him in doing the good works He has prepared for us, in order that we might be a blessing to the whole world, bringing Him pleasure and glory! We thank the Lord for everyone doing their part – all for the glory of HIS Name and HIS Kingdom!

Warmly in Christ,

Dean