Lessons Learned from “just a dog”.

This is probably strange as a message on the back of a Church bulletin, but in life there are a lot of lessons which can be observed in God’s creation. Personally, I like quite walks in the woods, looking into the night sky and observing birds and sneaky squirrels!

About thirteen years Jaycee came to live at our house during Joan’s chemo treatments. I pledged to not get attached to that active springier spaniel. That was a futile so we walked each and every day. She had a time schedule for walks and bed. She faithfully remind me every day except on rainy days She was the longest pet in our life, with the exception of a cat named Jena who was 20 plus years old. Cats are loner not interesting in teaching lessons, but good at bringing little “catch” gifts occasionally. What can we learn from “just a dog”.

1. When dogs are young the goal is “fun”. Simple and small things catch their eye. A ball, stick, a rope to tug. Lesson: Don’t miss the simple things: do your best to enjoy life. God wants that for you.
2. When they break a human “rule” are scolded they acknowledge with a bowed head and may hide. They learn and respond “mostly” to an acceptable behavior. When God corrects, we don’t need to pout!
3. When they are left alone, they wait and watch for our return. They greet our return with barking and waging tail.
4. When we call them, they respond unless distracted. They want to spend time with us. Sit by us hear our voices and be seen by us.
5. When fed and provided fresh water they are thankful. Sometimes not fully pleased with the food but thankful.
6. When scolded they don’t stay mad or pout.
7. They love unconditionally ready to respond.

God created these “dumb” animals after all they are “just a dog”! Next to a human spouse or friend “just a dog” comforts, love and protect their humans.  Come to think of it they are much like our creator God! Our Lord wants us to have a full joyful life. When He corrects God’s desire is for our growth in our relationship with Him. When we leave God out of our decisions and life. He waits and watches for us to return. Lord greets us joyfully and welcomes our time together. Lord calls as our master to involve us in His plan for our life. God is our shepherd. He provides for our needs. We should be thankful for what is provided.Beyond all they have mastered to greatest of societies needs. They love unconditionally! God is the author of unconditional love. When we are undeserving. He continues to call, reveal and remind us not because we’ve earned it. God is LOVE! It’s interesting Adam named them DOG thanks GOD!