1. A Reassuring Aroma Smell is one of our strongest senses in regards to memory and feeling. The olfactory neurons in the brain are closest to the limbic system, where memory and feelings are processed.

2. Memories A familiar smell can instantly trigger a vivid memory or relationship. When I smell snickerdoodle cookies baking, I instantly recall my grandmother’s house where I felt loved and adored. When I smell “Joop” perfume, I immediately remember the first dates I had with Cece.

3. Jewish Culture It was Jewish tradition whenever an important or royal figure entered the community that person would parade through the middle of village. Prior to the parade, that person would be annointed with perfume. As he passed by, the aroma of royalty would follow behind him. Example: Solomon becoming king, 1 Kings 1:38-40

4. John 12:1-3 Six days before the Passover, Jesus arrived at Bethany, where Lazarus lived, whom Jesus had raised from the dead. Here a dinner was given in Jesus’ honor. Martha served, while Lazarus was among those reclining at the table with him. 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.

5. The Subtle Encouragement Mary poured the equivalent of 4 large perfume jars onto Jesus’ feet and head (combining the John and Matt accounts). This was just a few days prior to Jesus’ arrest. It is most probable that this very strong “pure nard” was still present during Jesus’ wrestling with doubt in the garden, during his arrest, his flogging, his crucifixion. As Jesus endured such agonizing trials, he still could smell the aroma of “royalty.” He could be constantly reminded, “I am a king.” “I am royalty.” When we wrestle with doubt, feel tortured by accusing thoughts or experience painful trials, do we smell our own aroma as royalty. 2 Cor. 2:14-16

6. 2 Corinthians 2:14-16 But thanks be to God, who always leads us in triumphal procession in Christ and through us spreads everywhere the fragrance of the knowledge of him. For we are to God the aroma of Christ among those who are being saved and those who are perishing.

7. Closing Thought Just as smell triggers memories and feelings, we are the instruments by which God helps others have memories and feelings associated with Christ. We are the aroma of royalty. We are the aroma of Christ.