On The Damascus Road/The Ultimate Compliment

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The Ultimate Compliment      We once lived a block away from a riverside RV park, which was home to a group of elderly summer-only residents.
     This park had a little playground where I used to take my kids regularly. I'd push them on the swings or give them rides on the merry-go-round, and sometimes we'd bring bread to feed the ducks by the river. In fact, I began taking my daughter there before she was even old enough to walk, so these retirees all watched my kids grow up. I loved these old folks and they loved having my kids around.
     One of these elderly men lived with his mother. That's right, he was in his 70's himself, and he lived with his mother, who was 97. She was a wonderful, soft-spoken, dignified lady that everyone admired for her kind spirit and warm smile.
     One Fourth of July evening, as dusk set in, we were at the RV park waiting for the fireworks from the riverbank. In the dwindling light, this charming lady graced me with one of her warm smiles and said something to me. She was so frail, she spoke in barely more than a whisper, so I had to lean closer and ask her to repeat herself. This time she spoke clearly and distinctly. Watching me cradle my kids close to me, she said as loudly as she could manage, "I admire you."
     I was stunned. I hoped she did not think I was being rude, because I didn't answer. I couldn't answer. I was speechless. Here was a lady who had lived 97 years and was still charming people wherever she went, a lady who was spoken of highly by everyone who knew her—and SHE admired ME!
     After I picked my jaw up off the ground, I eventually managed to stammer out a "W-Why?" She had watched me bring my kids to the park, walk with them and play with them. She said she admired an active father who spent so much time with his kids and took such obvious delight in them.
     I still get misty thinking about this. It's because of the source of the compliment. If it were someone else, it would still be nice to hear, but because it came from someone who had lived nearly a century, it was all the more meaningful. I shall never forget it.
     There is One Who can bestow an even greater compliment than this. There is One Who may one day say to you, "Well done, good and faithful servant." This will be the Ultimate Compliment. Would you like to hear these words at your life's end? Do you think you will? If you do, it will not be for being a competent parent, nor for any other deeds you do. If you are not sure, and would like to be, there is a way to be certain. Follow the links below.
Contributed by Warren Kramer
Comments/Feedback are welcome at his e-mail
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Originally appeared on Daily Wisdom

    Jesus is standing at the door to your heart all the time. He is knocking to come in and love you and guide you. He is offering you the gift of everlasting life, but you must hear Him and open the door to Him as He will not kick it in. (Rev. 3:20) A gift is just outside your heart's door at this time. Will you receive this gift? Will you open the door to Jesus and let him flood your soul with His love? If so, read the following paragraph as your prayer.

    Father, I know that I have sinned and I turn from those ways and ask you to come into my heart and cleanse me. I know that I cannot do this on my own and I need your help. Fill my soul, Lord, and make me whole. I want your will for my life to be preeminent. Help me to grow in your way.
    Amen

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