Week of March 18, 2022
“Now thanks be to God who always leads us in triumph in Christ, and through us diffuses the fragrance of His knowledge in every place. For we are to God the fragrance of Christ among those who are being saved and among those who are perishing.” 2 Corinthians 2:14-15
Whenever the Roman military won a battle they would celebrate with a victory parade. The commanding general would lead the procession in a chariot followed by his soldiers, musicians, and other officials. At that time the soldiers would lead the defeated enemy through the city in chains of bondage. As part of the celebration, the Roman government would burn fragrances on altars, filling the entire city with a pleasant aroma. Those that did not witness the triumphal procession would still smell the overpowering incense. From the smell everyone would know that the Roman military had been victorious in battle.
The apostle Paul used this powerful imagery to describe the affect that Christians should have throughout the world. According to Paul, God permeates our lives with the fragrance of Christ. Everywhere we go our lives should demonstrate to others that Christ is victorious. His activity in the lives of His people is the greatest evidence that Christ is alive and triumphant. Our life ought to be convincing proof that God continues to work effectively in the lives of His people. I hope you have a great upcoming weekend and that I see you at Gateway this Sunday.
God Bless, Pastor Rick