The Smell Of Jesus

What does Jesus smell like?

The question brings to mind the fragrance counter at a Macy’s department store near my home. Just thinking about it causes a sensory overload. There is little that is authentic or natural about those smells.

Do they smell like Jesus? Is this what the Holy Spirit had in mind when He inspired Paul to write these words? I don’t think so.

Wednesday morning in a tough urban neighborhood on the east side of Indianapolis I smelled Jesus. There were no fragrance counters or employees in white lab coats. This was a warehouse that had been converted to an auto repair garage, a place where lift stations raise both automobiles and dreams so young people can learn a trade. Kids from the community learn about carburetors and grace at the YFC Wheels City Life Center. It’s a place where the conversations comfortably transition from the merits of AC Delco parts and to the unrelenting love of Jesus.

I smelled Jesus in that garage... and the aroma was more like motor oil and grease than Chanel No. 5. It was authentic and full of dignity, promise, and transformation. Jesus smelled vibrant, compelling, and powerful.

He smelled beautiful, and as I breathed deeply, the scent washed over my theology. A fragrance from life to life...

To the hungry He smells like homemade bread.

To the captive He smells like mountain air.

To the lonely and isolated He smells like a birthday party.

To the defenseless He smells like victory.

To the prisoner He smells like mercy.

To the arrogant He smells offensive.

To the lost He smells like a shepherd.

To the abused He smells like justice.

To the discarded and rejected He smells like Braveheart.

...and to the kids on the east side of Indy He smells like Quaker State 10W40.

Jesus. The beautiful smell of hope.