A fragrant aroma

In one home a cake bakes in the oven. Aroma fills the air. Food to comfort. Share. 


In another home, not too far away a friend sits. Hands folded. Task almost complete.
Checklist studied once more. Words are few. Strength decreases and pain increases.


They sat together, those men of mine offering freshly baked cake. A meager attempt. To offer kindness. Cheer. Words exchanged. Promises to help his wife care for the farm.


Handshakes. Then hugs. And prayer. Hands laid on friend. Words of praise to Father for a life full. Cries for mercy in this hour. The last pages of this life. 


An aroma fills the air. Sweet aroma.


....and walk in love, just as Christ also loved you and gave Himself up for us, an offering and a sacrifice to God as a fragrant aroma.  Ephesians 5:2