Even with a great amount of rain coming in and going through this morning, with had nothing more than inconveniences with localized flooding in our area. Thank You, Father, for watching over us and keeping us safe.
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On my elementary route, one of the families has a German Shepherd “pup”. It is probably close to as big as it is going to get but it is a pup through and through! It never fails, when I pull up the pup is bounding all over the place usually with a piece of wood in its mouth. It drops its “toy” near the mom and if she doesn’t respond in a timely manner, the pup barks several times in a row, making sure she hasn’t missed the invitation to take part in an exciting game of fetch.
It’s entertaining to watch but what I noted today, especially, was the fact that the pup has not been affected whatsoever by the weather. It has repeated the same routine in warm weather, in cool weather, in frigid weather, in the snow and ice, and today in the rain. There seems to be no less enthusiasm and joy than when I first saw it at the beginning of the school year when the heat of summer was winding down. The same passion and eagerness are continuously displayed.
Even its master’s less than enthusiastic response – or lack thereof altogether – does not daunt its efforts! Every day is the same – let’s play!
Dogs have been given the moniker, “Man’s Best Friend”. And it is true! They seem to always be eager for love and attention. And though they may not always receive their heart’s desire, they are not discouraged!
I’ve heard the joke about how to find out who loves you most, your spouse or your dog. Lock them in the trunk of your car and let them both out in an hour. Who is happy to see you?
I know our lives are way more complicated, but we could certainly learn something from this family’s pup – and at least a majority of younger children, respond to life in the same way. We let so many things in life rob us of our joy – disappointments, cruelty, hatred, neglect, pain, and loss, to name a few. I suppose it is inevitable but I would put the challenge out there that if we are followers of Jesus, we would strive to see the beauty and wonder that life extends to us and the outcome would be a joy for life – enthusiasm, passion, and eagerness!
May the God of hope fill you with all joy and peace in believing [through the experience of your faith] that by the power of the Holy Spirit you will abound in hope and overflow with confidence in His promises. Romans 15:13 AMP
Rejoice always and delight in your faith; be unceasing and persistent in prayer; in every situation [no matter what the circumstances] be thankful and continually give thanks to God; for this is the will of God for you in Christ Jesus. 1 Thessalonians 5:16-18 AMP
Mar 7th, 2022, Mon, 7:14 pm
