An Everlasting Fragrance by Buffy Crabtree

I used to sell wonderful fragrances, direct from Paris. There were sweet florals, citrus tones, woody notes, and fruity aromas.

No one’s finger was to touch the opening of the sample bottles so the fragrance inside, balanced with the finest oils, would remain pure. A mouette, gently dipped into each delicate blend allowed a client to choose just the right scent for herself. It absorbed the fragrance which was applied to a prospect’s pulse points - the wrist or just beneath the ear lobe creating an aromatic scent, unique to each individual. 

One could choose from Eau de parfum, Eau de toilette, or Eau de Cologne. Of course, the real perfumes linger the longest on a lady’s pulse points. Consequently, they are the most expensive and the most desired. 

The rose petals from southern France used in the floral note bouquets were the best any company could offer. In fact, there was a man who smelled every delivery of rose petals used in their preparation. 

He could detect whether a shovel was used in any process before the delivery and smell the difference between perfect rose petals and imperfect ones. If a shovel had been used, he would not accept any part of the shipment. The fragrant bouquet demanded perfect blossoms.

This perfection process reminds me of Jesus’ wonderful fragrance. It’s the real thing! He has the perfect aroma and we can have it too. 

How fragrant and endearing are our expressions of love? 
What scent is our body language? 
Are our actions sacrificial? Christ-like? 
Are we forgiving, or do we hold smelly grudges? 
Is the fragrance we wear every day a sweet smelling aroma to the Lord? 

Scripture tells us: “Be imitators of God, therefore, as dearly loved children and live a life of love, just as Christ loved us and gave Himself up for us as a fragrant offering and sacrifice to God” (Ephesians 5:1-2, NIV). 

Let’s take time to do a little honest self-examination to determine the fragrance God and others smell in us. May we have a soothing, refreshing scent.

Buffy MacDonald is a grief counselor living in SC. Her book  “Grieving God’s Way – He Feels Your Pain” is based on the loss of her first husband. To find out more about Buffy, her book and her ministry, visit her site: Grieving God's Way.