That Smell

Genesis 8:21–And the Lord smelled a sweet savor (KJV)

When a skunk sprayed our dog, the vet advised us to wash her in tomato or pineapple juice and rinse her blankets with Lysol. It is hard to wash a squirming hound with one hand while holding one’s nose with the other. Dolly kindly reciprocated by shaking herself dry and spraying us with tomato juice. Over all, there was some improvement. Now our dog smelled of tomato juice, Lysol………..and skunk.

What, I wonder; does God smell when he inhales the fragrance of earth? Are all of his children giving off a sweet savor, a clean fragrance? Or do some of us still give off the distinct odor of skunk?

Ephesians 5:4–Dirty stories, foul talk, and coarse jokes, these are not for you. Instead, remind each other of God’s goodness and be thankful. (LB)            

Ephesians 5:4 –Though some tongues just love the taste of gossip, Christians have better uses for language than that. Don’t talk dirty or silly. That kind of talk doesn’t suit our style. Thanksgiving is our dialect. (MSG)

Prayer: Lord, we’re guilty of listening to and even repeating ever so slightly dirty or off-colour stories. We laughed with the crowd while the odor of skunk drifted toward you. We are ashamed. Forgive us. Help us to be a sweet savor unto you. In Christ’s Name. Amen.