“Spices of the Spirit”

February 21, 2008
Thursday

Galatians 5:16-25

There is a place in Istanbul called the Spice Market. Inside this area are many merchants who are selling a wide variety of spices. It was in the Spice Market that I purchased the frankincense and myrrh that we talked about on Epiphany Sunday, In many shops one can find white pepper, saffron, red pepper, curry, paprika, and so many more. Some shops sell perfumes and ointments and depending on which part of the market you are in, the smells can be quite different. Each of these spices, when added correctly, can really bring out the flavor of the meal. I don’t know how it all works but I certainly love tasting the great results!
Today’s reading reminds us of the spices that God adds to our lives when we live in the Spirit. I know...they are called the Fruit of the Spirit but I think of them as adding a great flavor to our lives. How much better is our life when we experience patience, kindness, joy, and peace? If we live in the way of the Spirit, if we allow the Spirit to live and work within us, just as the right spice brings out the full taste of the meal, so too do the fruit of the Spirit in our lives. They bring out the fullness of a life lived in faith. Why settle for the bland when we can spice up our lives with self-control, love, faithfulness, and gentleness? I agree they may not sound as exciting as crushed red pepper, but I will testify that they are all of that and more! Let us spice up our life by living in the Spirit and experiencing the fruit of such faith.