Fix Your Face

A recent sermon at my church was about the aroma we emit as Christ followers.  Some people draw others to them, while some may be repulsed.  Of course, this is not an actual smell, but is indicative of our behavior, words, and attitude.  As I listened to the pastor, illustrations kept popping into my head (that happens a lot) of what he was talking about.  

Here’s one of them.  

The story is told that during Thomas Jefferson's presidency he and a group of travelers were crossing a river that had overflowed its banks. Each man crossed on horseback fighting for his life. A lone traveler watched the group traverse the treacherous river and then asked President Jefferson to take him across. The president agreed without hesitation, the man climbed on, and the two made it safely to the other side.  Somebody asked him: "Why did you select the President to ask this favor?" The man was shocked, admitting he had no idea it was the President who had carried him safely across. "All I know," he said, "is that on some of your faces was written the answer 'No' and on some of them was the answer 'Yes.' His was a 'Yes' face."

Every time I hear this story, I wonder if others think I have a “yes” face.  

I used to work at an appliance store.  I shared an office with my boss in the back.  One day I recognized the customer’s voice.  I could hear the discussions.  She wasn’t pleasant.  And since I saw her regularly at church, I knew what her face looked like.  She always looked mad.  My boss commented on the conversation that was occurring.  I explained I knew that person because she attended my church.  He was called out to the floor to answer some questions and then returned to our office. I’ll never forget his comment.  

“If she calls herself a Christian, she should tell her face.”  

Again, I ponder what message my face is sending.  

A few years ago, one of my daughters moved to the south.  Colloquial expressions vary from region to region.  One comment she hears quite often is “fix your face”. This is usually said by a parent to a child.  Perhaps the facial expression is inappropriate.  Maybe it shows they have an attitude or a scowl.  

I have to admit; I want to say that to some people occasionally.  

Others can tell a lot about us even before we open our mouth.  If we are a Christ follower, they should get a whiff of the love and hope of Jesus emanating from our lives. 

How’s your face?

“To the one we are an aroma that brings death; to the other, an aroma that brings life.” 2 Corinthians 2:16 (NIV)