Absorbing Christ

“May you be infused with strength and purity, filled with confidence in the presence of God...” (1 Thessalonians 3:13 MSG) 

Jasmine tea is made by placing dried tea leaves in layers next to fresh jasmine blossoms. Once the scent of the flowers has been imparted to the tea leaves, the flowers are separated. The longer the tea leaves remain in proximity to the flowers, the more aromatic they become. The fragrance becomes part of the inherent flavor of the tea. In the best jasmine teas, any trace of bitterness and astringency is replaced by the refreshing sweetness of the flowers. 

Like tea leaves near jasmine, we are called to be in God’s presence. This requires intentionality and time. First of all, we must remain adjacent to Christ. This means we may have to forgo other company. Next, we have to patiently wait, allowing the Spirit of God to transform us. The closer we are, the longer we absorb His essence, the more Christ-like we become. Eventually, strength and purity replace all traces of bitterness and astringency that we may harbor. We are now ready to be poured out for others, so they may taste the goodness of God.