“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” (2 Corinthians 2:15–16).

My all-time favorite stop to make when I visit Rockford is Herman’s Boy Coffee shop! My first glance at the coffee bar is their current list of specialty flavors of the month:

• Easter Sunrise – “an intriguing blend of toasted almond, coconut and orange citrus notes”
• Grand Slam – “rich chocolate, spicy cinnamon and toasted hazelnut”
• Sugar Cookie – “sweet sugar cookie flavor”

The aroma as soon as I walk through the door is divine! I could sit in their coffee shop and sip coffee all day long and never tire of the fragrance. There is no mistake that coffee’s been roasting and brewing. I feel right at home in this quiet and quaint atmosphere.

When I contemplate aromas and smells, I wonder if I am a sweet “fragrance of life” to those I come in contact with. Do my words and actions lead them toward God or away from him? When I hear gossip, do I chime in with the most recent details, or do I attempt to steer the conversation in a wholesome direction? The words that come out of my mouth originate from my deceitful heart. “The heart is deceitful above all things and beyond cure. Who can understand it” (Jeremiah 17:9).

On the way home, my car smells of coffee beans. I breathe deeply and drink in the aroma.

Prayer: Dear God, help me to be attractive to others and not repulsive. My desire is that they ultimately be attracted to you, your ways, and your heart.   

Ask: Are your family and friends eager to be near you, or are they anxious to leave you? Do you contribute to negative conversations or try to respond in a positive, uplifting manner?

Teresa K. Lasher ©2011