As we see people reacting with riots and violence to the supreme court decisions, we understand that we are not to act that way. After Jesus' death his disciples did not instigate riots or plot to overthrow the government. We are familiar with the Bible symbolism of our prayers coming up to God like incense, but in this sermon Mr. Smith shows us something else, that when we do it, it is said to be a fragrance going up to God. When we follow Jesus' examples of humility and obedience Paul says in II Corinthians 2 that we are "the fragrance of Christ" in a world that is perishing.

Gary Smith

United Church of God Pastor

Gary Smith was born in Charlotte, North Carolina, but spent most of his youth in the Pasadena, California area. He graduated from Ambassador College in 1976 and he and his wife, Liz, moved to Peoria, Illinois. For the next six years he worked as a nursing home administrator in Illinois, Ohio, and Texas.
In 1982, he and Liz began to serve in the full-time ministry. Since that time, they have served in a number of congregations in the Midwest.
Gary and Liz now pastor in Houston, Texas near their two children and grandson.