But thanks be to God, who in Christ always leads us in triumphal procession, and through us spreads the fragrance of the knowledge of Him everywhere. (II Corinthians 2:14 ESV)
How-to-Change-the-World and Love
I stopped playing chess for a while because I was tired of not winning. I did not care about the sharpening of my mind, the community, the mathematical intricacies, or the joy of the game itself. I discovered that all I cared about was the result. And it ruined the game for me.
But recently I have enjoyed playing again. I discovered that chess is not about winning.
Neither is life.
The triumphal procession that Paul describes here is not the spiritual form of the celebration at the end of Star Wars. While it sounds exciting to have the saints and angels cheering us on as we receive our ‘well-done’ medals, victory in Christ is a different thing. It is actually a better thing.
The fragrance of the knowledge of Him that spreads though us to the world is love itself. His love for His beloved enables us to love Him. His love for His beloved enables us to love others.
And THAT is what changes the world.
There is cheering going on… but it is aimed at the love-bringer. There is praising going on… but it is aimed at our Savior. There is a victory parade, but at its beginning, middle, and end that parade involves us putting our meager crowns at JESUS’ feet. (Revelation 4:10)
Christ’s changes the world and we are along for the ride. Not a simpering, silly, bland love. But a gracious, sacrificial, purposeful, powerful love.
Take the Love God grants us.