I remember, as a child, sitting at the table, reading the information given on sauce bottles and cereal packets. Such reading still brings me information, entertainment and lessons for life.
Some labels talk about the product’s quality. My HP Sauce bottle contains ‘…the original brown sauce which since 1899 has set the standard for quality.’
‘Everyone’s favourite, this legendary and uniquely distinctive sauce is the result of our dedication to sourcing the highest quality ingredients…’
This isn’t true – it isn’t everyone’s favourite. But quality is important… in products, people, standards, politics, church… and brown sauce.
…Musing on Paul’s words on the importance of quality: ‘Whatever is true, whatever is noble, whatever is right, whatever is lovely, whatever is admirable – of anything is excellent or praiseworthy – think about such things.’ (Philippians 4:8)
We bought some new patio chairs. The label says: ‘Stylish and comfortable.’ ‘Sturdy and robust construction.’ That’s about the chairs’ quality…
Then on the other side: ‘Outdoor essentials. Because life should be about having fun.’ I hadn’t realised that the chairs were ‘essential’or that they would contribute to my ‘fun’!
It’s what many labels claim – the quality of the product will improve the quality of my life.
…Musing on claims on Jesus’ ‘label’… ‘Bread of Life’ for the hungry, ‘Light of Life’ for those in darkness… He claimed that the quality of his integrity, honesty and character could change the quality of life of his followers: ‘I have come that they may have life and have it to the full.’ (John 10:10)
My PG tips tea bag box tells me: ‘Arthur Brooke opened his first tea shop in Manchester in 1869….’ HP sauce, tea companies, Christian faith have stood the test of time…
‘There’s nothing quite like a cuppa. Getting comfy, popping your feet up, dunking a biccy or three.’ And the quality of the product brings a quality to my life that brings security, satisfaction and peace.
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