It’s the way we connect to each other.  It’s been said that the shoes noticed first but it’s the words than endure.  A simple “that was good” can carry the day for you, perhaps even a few more when recalled and appreciated.

St. Peter says to Jesus in a sheepish voice, “Lord, to whom can we go when you have the words of eternal life?”  Focus turns on Jesus and the words that follow.  Eternal life may be a bit off for some or closer for others but there are “eternal life” words we can use every day with those we meet.

“That’s a pretty dress on you” will not produce a law suit unless you’re the boss.  Us lower folks can get away with that phrase but the recipient will wear that dress again and again and remember those words.  Even an odd question like, “You don’t seem yourself today?” can unleash the sick son story or the belligerent daughter tale and you’ve just invited her to taste the “eternal life” of a kind phrase allowing her to share some troubles with you.  A friend told me one day that I seemed sad.  I didn’t but appreciate the concern and insight.  It made me rethink if indeed I was sad or just reflective.  I chose reflective.

You didn’t need to provide a solution of provide a silly Dr. Phil soft comment.  You’ve offered “eternal life” for a tomorrow to someone struggling today.

What’s the timing on your consumed time?  Ten seconds to say it and a couple of minutes to listen?  Or ten seconds to say it and 1.2 seconds to see the beaming smile.

Eternal life, thought of as that place after we die denies its pleasures here in the Kingdom of God Jesus won for us.  That kingdom is truly here.  That quick observation is sacredly shared and amazingly received.  If that’s not the glory of something bigger than us then I don’t know what is.

So, I guess it wasn’t the shoes after all.