“And he made the holy anointing oil also, and the pure fragrant incense, blended as by the perfumer” (Exodus 37:29 ESV).
In Exodus 37, Moses recorded for Israel how Bezalel and the craftsmen constructed the furnishings of the Tabernacle exactly as the LORD had commanded. In verse 29, he noted that they also made the holy anointing oil and the pure fragrant incense, blended by the skilled work of a perfumer. This was not common oil for daily use, nor casual perfume for personal enjoyment. It was sacred, carefully prepared according to God’s precise instructions given earlier (Ex. 30). Its purpose was holy—to consecrate the priests and furnishings and to accompany worship with a pleasing aroma before the LORD.
The emphasis was not creativity but obedience. The oil and incense were made “as by the perfumer,” showing care, skill, and submission to divine specification. Their sacred function affirmed that worship was to be offered God’s way, not man’s way. The rising fragrance symbolized the prayers of God’s people, while the anointing oil pointed to consecration and sanctification. Together, they anticipated Christ’s mediatory work—our High Priest whose intercession rises before the Father and whose Spirit sets us apart as holy.
On this Valentine’s Day, it seems fitting to reflect on fragrant oil prepared by a perfumer. While the world celebrates sentimental love, Exodus 37:29 reminds us that true love for God is expressed through obedience. Jesus said, “If you love Me, you will keep My commandments” (John 14:15). Love is not merely emotional; it is covenantal and obedient.
We show our love for Christ not through improvised worship or selective submission, but through careful, joyful obedience to His Word. Our prayers rise like incense when offered through Christ. Our lives become fragrant when set apart by His Spirit. As we walk in obedience, our love becomes a holy aroma before the Lord. This is the fragrance of obedient love.
PRAYER: Dear Father, we thank You for the gift of Your Word and for the greater High Priest, Jesus Christ. Teach us to love You not only with our words but with our obedience. Set us apart by Your Spirit. Let our prayers rise like sweet incense before You, and let our lives carry the fragrance of Christ. May our love for You be expressed in faithful submission to Your commands. In Jesus’ name, amen.