"hold your incense high"

There are a great number of temples in Hong Kong. Some humble, others presenting themselves much more elaborate. But regardless of it's appearance there is a consistent characteristic that will identify a temple area before the door frames cross your vision: incense. The aroma around the courts is full and distinctive. As the Chinese New Year approaches, temple courts are brimming with visitors coming to hold their incense high. Walking past one of the most frequented temples here in Hong Kong last week, it was very apparent who was there to pay respects. They waved their collection of incense sticks high as the sticks burned, releasing that unique scent. It's identifying and it weaves its way into your clothes, reminding you through the rest of the day where you've been.

The rest of the day unfolded in an ordinary fashion, but 2 Corinthians 2:14 { For we are to God the aroma of Christ among those who are being saved and those who are perishing. } set itself on repeat in my heart. This incredible thought accompanied it's repetition: that we, God's children, are set apart for such a worthy purpose. What a blissful thought. I pray that when the world looks in on our lives, they should see truth lifted high and that our longings would reflect a heavenly longing that burns in us.