Â鶹ԼÅÄ

Good morning.

If anyone goes unnaturally out of their way

to say something appreciative or admiring to you today,

make the most of it, savour it, write it down if you think you need to.

Only, it could be another 365 days until it happens again.

Because it turns out today is observed by some as ‘Pay a compliment day’.

Ìý

I love the timing of the Baptism of Jesus in the Christian calendar in early January.

As Christ comes up out of the River Jordan the voice of God declares:

You are my Son, the beloved, with you I am well pleased.

At the start of every new year

Christians make these affectionate divine words their own,

and so, in the first instance,

it’s who is paying the compliment that makes it count.

Ìý

The praise of a stranger whose opinion we can’t gauge,

won’t ever go as far as the praise of a friend who’s opinion we can.

The praise of an expert on the other hand or even a critic or an enemy,

might be more conditional.

When the Pharisees and Scribes

may have admired Jesus’ wisdom and learning for example,

there’s little evidence that he relished their civility.

Ìý

The other key factor though, is what we’re being complimented for.

While everyone likes to be told they’re looking well,

I’ve noticed it’s a courtesy most seized upon by the elderly

and anyone who’s been sick or ill.

Of course the quickest way to a parent’s heart

is to be glowing about their children.

On that score, what often unlocks Jesus’ deepest divine feeling,

seems to be words recognising His power, His authority and His kingship.

Ìý

We thank-you Lord God,

for those who know just what to say and when to say it.

Grant us opportunities to do the same so that, following your Son the Beloved,

we may live out your acceptance and forgiveness. Amen