Thirtysomethings

BY SARAH SARGENT

We are a society obsessed with smells. Don’t believe me? Stop by the nearest Bath and Body Works when they are running a big sale. Everything comes in various scents: laundry detergent, hand soaps, body wash, lotions—even new cars market their fragrances. The magic smell of a new baby is in a league all its own. In a moment, a particular scent can recall a memory you haven’t thought about for years. The way something smells has a considerable impact on our lives.

If you own dogs, it is likely you have watched them sniffing noses with other dogs. And the scent you carry home (that you can’t smell yourself) lets your dog know exactly what you’ve been up to. I have two Labradoodles: Regal and Lexi. My friend Caitlin has a Goldendoodle named Archer. We have had many “doodle dates,” and without hesitation, I can say Archer is one of Regal and Lexi’s dearest doggie friends. I can’t begin to describe the sniffing I get when I return from visiting Caitlin’s without them. Regal and Lexi sniff my jeans for so long because I have been around their friend, and they can smell his scent on me.

The other night, I met friends for dinner, including Caitlin, and the smell interrogation began when I returned home. I was puzzled because I hadn’t been around Archer. Then it hit me; I sat beside Cait, and our legs bumped at some point. That simple touch was enough for the scent to carry. The thought made me smile, but it also got me thinking. What kind of “scent” do we leave on the people we interact with throughout our day? Do we share the “sweet aroma” of our Savior: love, mercy, compassion, and holiness? Or do they catch bitter whiffs of criticism, harshness, and anger?

“But thanks be to God, who in Christ always leads us in triumphal procession, and through us spreads the fragrance of the knowledge of him everywhere. For we are the aroma of Christ to God among those who are being saved and among those who are perishing” (2 Corinthians 2:14-15).

Paul shares how God is using him to radiate the fragrance of His knowledge everywhere he goes. The Gospel message is a sweet aroma that pleases God when we share it. Paul even reminded the church of Ephesus to “walk in love as Christ loved us and gave himself up for us, a fragrant offering and sacrifice to God” (Ephesians 5:2). We have received the greatest gift of all, Jesus Christ as our Lord and Savior. He has left an incredible impression on each of us. Our lives, words, and actions should always leave a sweet aroma that draws people to Jesus.

Let’s take a few minutes and do a self-smell test.

-Have my words been encouraging and supportive on social media?

-Have my actions at work left a good impression of the “Boss” I ultimately represent?

-Have my thoughts reflected the grace I have been given? -Has my patience with others reflected the mercies I receive every day? -Does my “scent” make people want to come closer or turn away?

We leave a scent wherever we go, after every interaction, whether in person or not. We must remind ourselves daily that we represent Christ in this lost and dying world. We have an opportunity to draw people to Him. Let’s not stink up the place. Let’s leave a sweet smell that can be sensed long after we are gone.

About the Columnist: Sarah Sargent is a third-generation member and leader in FWB Women’s Ministries. She has been active at all levels of the ministry from an early age. In 2013, she began serving on the WNAC board and has been a member of the Shine team since its inception, as both a speaker and writer. She serves as President of the women’s ministry at Reynoldsburg FWB Church and President for Ohio FWB Women’s Ministries. She is a proud alumni of The Ohio State University, loves all things Disney and her labradoodles Regal and Lexi.