I saw a picture of Joss sticks, a form of incense sticks, which some Chinese burn to honour their ancestors. Apparently, records of incense can be dated as far back as 3600 bc India and then on to China, Greece and elsewhere. It is used for many reasons such as for religious, spiritual and meditative purposes. The Buddhists also have a practical purpose, reminiscent of the days when running water was scarce and an incense stick was automatically lit to create a welcoming smell. These different significances indicate hearts and minds in different spaces. This brings to mind Apostle Paul's cautionary note in Romans 14 whereby he says not to quarrel over disputable points, as God accepts each and everyone of us and looks at our hearts and motives. For example, "One person considers one day more sacred than another, another considers every day alike. Each of them should be fully convinced in their own mind. Whoever regards one day as special does so to the Lord. Whoever eats meat does so to the Lord, for they give thanks to God, and whoever abstains does so to the Lord and gives thanks to God ...You then why do you judge your brother or your sister? Or why do you treat them with contempt? For we will all stand before God's judgement seat". (Romans 14:5-6,10). Let's leave God to judge ours and others' hearts.
