Aroma of Faith: Pleasing the Lord in Modern Times

In the Book of Leviticus, we see a specific reference to the offering of a pleasing aroma to the Lord (Leviticus 1:9). This tradition spans religious practices from ancient times to contemporary days. The concept of something being 'pleasing to the Lord' has evolved over the centuries, reflecting shifts and developments in religious understanding and practice.

Paul's Description: A Sweet Aroma of Service

Paul eloquently describes a different kind of pleasing aroma in his letter to the Philippians:

Theodicean version translation: But I have all and abound: I am full, having indeed received from Epaphroditus the things [which were sent] from you, an odour of a sweet smell, a sacrifice acceptable, well-pleasing to God. (Philippians 4:18)

Paul makes it clear that the aroma pleasing to the Lord today is not through ritualistic offerings, but through active service and care for the needs of the Church. His words underscore the importance of love and service in the contemporary Christian faith.

James' Perspective: Pure Religion and Assistance

James emphasizes a similar point in his letter, highlighting the essence of 'pure religion':

ldquo;Pure religion and undefiled before God and the Father is this: to visit orphans and widows in their trouble, and to keep oneself unspotted from the world. (James 1:27)

James' message is clear: true devotion to God is expressed through acts of compassion and assistance to the disadvantaged in society, particularly orphans and widows.

David and the Prophets: Mercy and Sacrifice

David and the prophets also imparted the understanding that mercy and assistance to others is more pleasing to God than ritualistic sacrifices. They taught the value of showing mercy and helping others, paralleling this sentiment with the actions of Jesus as described in the Bible:

Not so much by the sacrifice of bulls and lambs and goats, but by showing mercy to men (Hebrews 10:22)

Jesus, as a figure, is often seen as the culmination of these teachings. His message, as presented in Matthew 9:13, continues the tradition of prioritizing compassion and mercy over ritualistic sacrifices:

Emmanuel, it is not my pleasure to offer burnt offerings, but to do justly, to love mercy, and to walk humbly with your God. (Matthew 9:13, paraphrased)

This shift in focus from traditional sacrifices to acts of charity and kindness reflects a significant evolution in religious thought and practice.

Contemporary Religious Interpretations

Religion, as an institution, is highly pliable, allowing for diverse and often conflicting interpretations. This diversity can be seen in various denominations and movements within Christianity, such as:

theological disputes: whether Jesus is divine or not, and the interpretation of his teachings liturgical practices: disagreements over sacraments like the Eucharist and whether it is considered cannibalism ethical and social issues: serving the poor, the rich, or both, and contemporary movements like Dominionist Christianity, Prosperity Christianity, and Universalism

Each of these perspectives offers a unique take on the principles of religious service and what is considered pleasing to God. However, the revised commandments, as expressed by Paul and expanded by James and the prophets, still hold a central place in many Christian communities.

The Modern Spiritual Task

The Lord, as understood within the Christian tradition, would undoubtedly find various forms of service, charity, and compassion to be pleasing. The essence of serving others can be seen as a form of spiritual offering, an aromatic representation of faith and devotion:

Yeshua/Jesus preached, and Paul, and the prophets: in essence, 'if you wish to offer a sacrifice to the Lord, do so by serving others with love and ; (Matthew 9:13, paraphrased)

By performing acts of kindness and assistance, modern Christians can offer a sweet aroma to the Lord, fulfilling the divine commandment to care for one's fellow man.

Conclusion

The aroma that is pleasing to the Lord today reflects the timeless values of love, service, and compassion. By embracing these principles, Christians can honor the divine commandments and offer a fragrant and aromatic spirit to the Lord, in accordance with the teachings of the prophets, Paul, and Jesus.