Hello Covenant Family!

Certain smells bring us back to a meaningful time in our lives.  For example, although I am now a vegetarian, when I go out to breakfast with my family and smell the aroma of pancakes, eggs, and sausage, it reminds me of the time I spent at my maternal grandmother’s house.  I would consistently be awakened by the fresh smell of her meal cooked with love.  It would flow through my nasal passages and cause my mouth to water.  Each whiff of that tantalizing smell signaled that a hearty meal was waiting to satiate my innermost hunger.   What made it even more delightful was hearing my grandmother beckon me to join her and the family at the table.  Once I got there, her smile would be glowing, as I scarfed down every morsel longing for a second helping.  She served this feast not just to provide physical sustenance but also to share a time of fellowship as we enjoyed rich conversations.

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Throughout the Bible from Genesis to Revelation, God discusses many forms of offering and worship.  These days offering has been relegated to just giving tithes and offerings.  However, giving money is just one act of worship.  God requires us to give Him our all (Exodus 30).  Specifically, God wants our complete devotion.   And He gives us tools to do that.  One such tool is incense which provides a sweet aroma to set the atmosphere for worship.  In Judeo/Christian circles, incense is used as an offering to God to indicate that our prayers and praise are devoted to Him alone.  When the sole focus is God, the Scriptures tell us that it is a sweet savor in His nostrils (Psalm 141:2; 2 Corinthians 2:4-17).  Now, our praise is received by God like incense.   As they go up, God is pleased with the heart that is enamored with His presence.  It’s like aroma therapy.  It soothes our soul in preparation for God’s tangible presence. And God presents Himself in new ways because He loves to hear His children cry out to Him in all circumstances.  It touches God’s heart to know that we love Him that much.  Incense might not be your thing, but everyone can praise.  Lift it up to God today and say, “Thank you, Lord,” for all He has done and all He’s been to you and for you!