“Therefore be imitators of God, as beloved children; and walk in love, just as Christ also loved you and gave Himself up for us, an offering and a sacrifice to God as a fragrant aroma.” Ephesians 5:1-2 (NAU)
Bobbie and I strolled, arm-in-arm, through the Butchart Gardens in Victoria, British Columbia, Canada. This was our first real vacation in 10 years and we were enjoying it thoroughly. The fifty-five acres of Butchart floral displays, offered us spectacular views as we meandered along the paths and expansive lawns. It is a horticultural experience that has delighted tourists, from all over the world, for 100 years. This exquisite masterpiece of gardening is a remarkable testimony to the beauty of God’s handiwork. It is truly one of the “loveliest corners in the world.”
One of the most memorable points of this vacation was that the gardens emitted such wonderful fragrances. We could linger anywhere along the paths and enjoy the sweet fragrance of flowers in full bloom. Butchart Gardens is more than beautiful landscapes. They smelled good too!
Some Christians seem to think that all they need to do is present a façade of discipleship. They don’t seem to understand that “following Christ” is more than religious landscaping. Discipleship that is only skin deep always fails the test of a sensitive nose. On the other hand, discipleship that truly imitates Christ is a disciple that is sacrificial and loving. It is a beautiful walk, which smells good to those who witness it.
Dear Father, thank you for the fragrant sacrifice of Jesus Christ. Forgive me for the times that my imitation of him has been superfluous and fragrantless. O Lord, deliver me from hypocrisy and grant to me a sacrificial offering that smells good to those around me. I pray this in Jesus’ name. AMEN
Let us thank God for Christ’s sacrificial offering and live as imitators of Christ,
Pastor Smith