March 31 | John 12:1-19

Julie Ogg
Mar 31
3 min read

DAILY READING

REFLECTION

How Do You Smell?

By Julie Ogg

When John recounts Jesus’ anointing at Bethany, he encourages us to remember what recently happened in that same family and town: Jesus came to Bethany, where Lazarus lived, whom Jesus had raised from the dead (12:1). As Mary (sister of Lazarus) anoints Jesus’ feet I imagine she is remembering her recent anointing of Lazarus' body for burial. Mary was known to sit at the feet of Jesus listening. She was one of his followers who heard his frequent predictions of his impending death. This confused his disciples, as it did not fit their picture of how Messiah would come. Not as a conquering king but as a humble king. A sacrifice for the sins of the world.

Paul, in speaking of the new covenant, which Jesus is ushering in, pens these words: But thanks be to God, who always leads us as captives in Christ’s triumphal procession and uses us to spread the aroma of the knowledge of him everywhere. For we are to God the pleasing aroma of Christ among those who are being saved and those who are perishing. To the one we are an aroma that brings death; to the other, an aroma that brings life. And who is equal to such a task? (2 Corinthians 2:14-16)

As believers, we are to be close enough to Jesus that others can “smell” him in our lives. We are called to be like him. To spread the knowledge of Him. Some people will find this compelling and will choose to draw near to Him and be saved. Others will find the same aroma repugnant and will avoid Him (and also us). Our calling is to be near to Christ. The outcome of our obedience is up to God.

As Jesus prepared to raise Lazarus he asked that the stone be moved. Martha’s response was understandable. "But, Lord,” said Martha, the sister of the dead man, “by this time there is a bad odor, for he has been there four days.” We are repelled by the smell of death. We do everything possible to avoid it. Yet, we see Jesus walking toward death throughout his entire earthly ministry.

The dinner in Bethany was given in Jesus’ honor. In the midst of this honor, Jesus continues to speak of his death. In his response to Mary’s lavish gift, Jesus replied, “It was intended that she should save this perfume for the day of my burial.” (12:7). Only Jesus understands that true life comes through death. Specifically, His death, which brings us eternal life. God is the only one who can bring life from death. In this scene the aroma is pleasing. Then Mary took about a pint of pure nard, an expensive perfume; she poured it on Jesus’ feet and wiped his feet with her hair. And the house was filled with the fragrance of the perfume. (12:3)

I recently attended the funeral of a woman who lived 104 years. While I did not know her personally, her service was filled with the pleasing aroma of Christ. She lived her life in such a way that others were drawn to her because she “smelled” like Jesus. Their encounters with her were encounters with Jesus.

We have the joy of sharing the aroma of Christ with those around us. It can be uncomfortable and misunderstood, as it was for Mary, but Jesus will always be with us. I want to be an aroma that brings life to those around me. I need that life myself. The only way to be filled with the fragrance of Christ is to spend time with Him. During this season of Lent, we reflect on Jesus life, death, and resurrection - all so we can be forgiven and reunited with God. Let’s not keep this unbelievable gift to ourselves!

PRAYER

Jesus, we are in humble awe of your gift of life to us. We want to be people of life with a pleasing aroma. Forgive us when we are too busy to spend time with you. Remind us that abundant life is found in your presence. Give us the desire and courage to be your fragrance to others in our lives. We praise you and thank you for your life-giving sacrifice on the cross. Amen

ABOUT THE AUTHOR

JULIE OGG

I have lived throughout the Midwest, the last twelve years in Columbus with my husband, Dan, and dog, Lollipop. I love to cook, travel, read, garden, and spend time with our nieces and nephews. I am naturally drawn to the Old Testament, particularly the poetic and prophetic books. I am grateful to be a part of the community of believers at UALC.