Monday, July 18, 2011

Smells of Remembrance...

Ever had one of those episodes where you smell something and it takes you back to a memory way before? I have - Strawberry Freezer Jam, Fresh Cookies Baking, Summer Squash & Okra sauteing in butter and spices. Others from my life are Salt Water on the Coast, Fresh fish smell on my hands, Tobacco being fired in the smoking barns the Summer I paid for Jessica's Engagement Ring.

The Disciple Peter had a Smell Of Remembrance too. The smell was an outdoor fire, one that the Bible calls "charcoal", used only twice in the New Testament; both times with Peter and Jesus involved. The significance of these two scenes cannot be understated. Personally, I think the significance of that second smell slammed home painful memories to Peter as he came up on the beach after his "It Is The Lord!" swim from the boat. But then, he couldn't twist away. He had to deal with his failures. This charcoal fire smell and the ironically created situation was one of those emotional avalanches that started slowly and then hit him like a ton of bricks as they sat there eating. Peter must have remembered the FIRE SMELL, DARKNESS & EVIL, JESUS NEARBY, 3 QUESTIONS, 3 ANSWERS, A LOOK FROM JESUS, WEEPING, HORRIBLE GUILT as the smoke and smell faded. Then his present reality that was MORNING & LIGHT, JESUS NEARBY, JOY, GUILT, 3 QUESTIONS, 3 ANSWERS, CONFESSION, and REINSTATEMENT, COMMITMENT.
Not so different from our own lives when we sin, eh? temptation, decision, sin, guilt, memory, scars. Then when we encounter a similar situation again, there is a sort of beach meal with Jesus. He requires us to fess up to our shortcomings. He urges us to FOLLOW HIM again. Privately first, then more publicly, then if asked before the world - much like Peter confessed to the world with his death. Honesty is a MUST if we want to be healed, if we want to be saved. In the midst of confession, we have to go through the memory of the whole dark scene again before Jesus can lead the way to forgiveness and restoration.
Next time you smell something that makes you remember, think of Peter. Think of yourself. Be encouraged - we serve a God of Second Chances. Just look at Peter's life for a reminder.

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