Let me introduce to you the newest member of our family. His name is
When we moved to Missouri, we knew that it would be difficult to bring along Rocky, the Golden Retriever that we have had for 6 years. We had gotten him from Naomi’s cousin, and he had been the best dog for the time we had him. We were able to reunite Rocky with his original owners as we embarked (no pun intended) on our new adventure.
It didn’t take long to realize that something was missing. Moving to a new place – especially so far from where you were used to – can be a lot for people. We were noticing that our children were having some issues with adjustment. One of our boys (the BIG animal lover) would often mention that “he missed Rocky.” We knew something had to happen.
It just so happened that we came across someone who was selling a litter of Golden Retriever puppies not too far from us. So we made the journey and brought this new bundle of joy into our home.
Over the past couple of days that Oaklee has been in our home, I have come to see some things that this fur-baby has reminded me of…
Patience is a virtue
If you are in need of patience in your life, go and get a puppy and bring it into your home. As you bring it into your home, work on getting it ‘housebroke’. This will show you where the patience level in your life truly lies.
Community is Essential
If you know anything about Golden Retrievers, you know that they are extremely loyal and people-pleasers. They long to be around other people, especially their ‘pack.’ As I hear little Oaklee whimper and bark in the middle of the night, I am reminded (among the frustration) that what he really wants is to be close to us and not be left alone.
This reminds me of what the church should be about. God has created every human being – introverts and extraverts alike – for community. None of us can do life well alone. We may want to at times, but to be separated from others who hold gifts and abilities that we need is disastrous.
Love well and deliberately
I am being reminded each day now as I walk into our house and this little bundle of fur comes running to lick me all over that I am loved. Little Oaklee goes all out to show others in his new family that he loves them. It is interesting to see how he does so differently with each one.
We may hold others in high affection, but how are we doing in showing love to others? Jesus said that one of the main characteristics of His followers would be the love that they had for one another (John 13:35).
It is interesting how the little things in our lives can be used by God to remind or teach us the things we need. What is God using in your life to remind/teach you of His truths? How are we doing in listening and learning?
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