We often find a way of expressing the quality of a spiritual experience through the sense of smell. “I don’t like the smell of this,” refers to some negatives discerned in a situation.
Two spiritual odors rise up in the incident of the supper with Martha, Mary and their brother Lazarus whom Jesus brought back to life. There is the aroma of extravagant love in the costly oil of spikenard; there is the spiritual stench of death in Judas’greed, exploitation of the poor, and in the plot to kill Jesus. Yet the sweet smell of life and love fills the house, overpowering the stifling, musty smell of hatred and death.
Are you ready to be Mary, pouring out your life in loving service for others? Overpower the negative odors that seek to pollute the otherwise sweet fragrance of your own goodness—gift of the Holy Spirit.
What are “Bible Breaths”? Learn More…
Example: Fragrance of love, filling space v. 3
Sundays are dedicated to the Gospels from the Revised Common Lectionary.
In year C, we generally read from the Gospel of Luke.
For all the Firestarters I recommend the ebook. You will have the entire program of well over a thousand of these introductions with you on your phone or tablet. Check the menu options at the site for more information.
The Bible Through the Seasons 