FRIDAY FUN DOG FACT
Dogs suffer from jealousy and are just as likely to turn into a green eyed monster as humans, according to scientists in California.
Researchers studied 36 dogs from 14 breeds and found that most were indifferent when their owners ignored them until the owners showered their attention on a stuffed dog.
“Whatever happens, my dear brothers and sisters, rejoice in the Lord. I never get tired of telling you these things, and I do it to safeguard your faith.” Philippians 3:1 NLT
The dismay of saying farewell to the month of June is as striking as the joy of seeing its return. Rarely do its temperatures require more than a sweater, and shorts and tees are often the dress code once the work is done. It is a month for being outside and making memories, and it is the anniversary month of when Famous and I first met.
Like the Junes is our lives, there are few times when everything comes together, we reek of optimism, and we give life our best. Plans for vacations replace political elections, and freshness from the garden adds flavor and vitality to our bodies. For these times we must be grateful, but faith is our stronghold when times are less abundant. Living in gratitude increases our acceptance of God’s provision.
Show me the path to serenity and joy for whatever faith requires of me.
“We are in this struggle together. You have seen my struggle in the past, and you know that I am still in the midst of it.” Philippians 1:30 NLT
I was very proud of Famous today during his grooming and bath. He was very cooperative as I turned the electric clippers on him, and I did not have to drag him into the shower. I have learned the secret of working fast and throwing in an occasional treat to make it easier for both of us! Otherwise, we can struggle through cleaning his ears, trimming his neck, and grooming each paw.
We struggle in this life, but we do not struggle alone. The sad truth is we sometimes struggle against one another rather than being united in purpose. God’s Spirit brings unity and fellowship that can sustain each of in our daily struggles.
Strengthen me today in my struggles so that I may share in the struggles of those around me.
“That’s a very pretty dog you got there,” a man said as he greeted Famous and me on our walk this afternoon. “My daughter would make a big fuss over him.” I accepted the compliment on Famous’ behalf. And then I thought what might have been the scene if Famous were not with me. First of all, I had never walked this particular street until Famous led me there one day. Now it is part of one of his favorite circuits. Without Famous, the chances of me meeting this man would be tiny. But if I had been walking down the street alone, it is clear to me the man might never have spoken. Oh, we might have caught one another’s eye and given a polite wave. But even an exchange of a few words of greeting and weather would have been quite unusual.
Teach me today to explore new opportunities of growth in my faith.
“Faith is the confidence that what we hope for will actually happen; it gives us assurance about things we cannot see.” Hebrews 11:1 NLT
He took notice for only a second.
I have no floor to ceiling mirrors in my home, so Famous does not often get glimpses of his reflection. He has seen himself in a mirror, often with me standing beside him, and the distant view of the two of us has at times captured his interest. But this morning he found himself looking back at his handsome reflection in a neighbor’s window as he stood on a sidewalk elevated above the floor of the home. He might have recognized himself, or he might have seen himself as of no threat, but either way after a moment he moved on.
How often are we lured away from the destination set for us each day by God by false images, things we believe will bring us joy and peace, which turn out to only be empty promises? When do we learn to recognize God’s truth in a world of deceit and manipulation? When we take the time to investigate to see if what attracts us is just two dimensional or not.
Grant me the insight today, Lord, to see what You have called truthful.
“Because I am righteous, I will see you. When I awake, I will see you face to face and be satisfied.” Psalm 17:15 NLT
My birthday is so close to the day I found Famous I consider that time to be our “anniversary.” We have now been together for nine years, each with its joys and sorrows. And what makes him more special to me is the simple fact he has been with me through all those times. He was with me through job transitions which were difficult but which proved to be beneficial for me. He was with me during my sister’s illness and death, and he still is a touchstone for her memory. He has helped me to explore new restaurants and new travel destinations. He has been loyal and loving.
Today, he was simply with me as I slept the afternoon away. Dogs are good for that. They give you the added security of keeping watch while you are deep in sleep. It was a peaceful present after a morning of worship, praise, and fellowship.
Nothing can satisfy as can the Lord of Hosts. Fill my cup with Your blessings until it overflows!
“May he grant your heart’s desires and make all your plans succeed.” Psalm 20:4 NLT
It is a Saturday. There is warm and breezy summer weather. Famous and I are just hanging around the house working on a few chores and listening to beach (or shag) music. A hike awaits us in about an hour, and if the chores get done, I imagine there could be a nap for both of us later this afternoon. Life is good!
Life is good, and it comes from the Lord above. We must not allow ourselves to seek God only when we are hurt or in need, but even in abundance and happiness.
I will praise You in times of plenty so that I will remain thankful in times of want.
FRIDAY FUN DOG FACT:
Dogs have their own “fingerprint.” A dog’s paw print may look pretty generic but their nose print is actually as unique as a human fingerprint. Their combination of ridges and creases is so distinct it can actually be used to identify them.
“Now they know that everything I have is a gift from you.” John 17:7 NLT
I make every effort to let people know I make a connection between God and Famous. He is just a dog, just as you, and I, are one of many persons living for a brief moment on this planet. I find it no coincidence that if you look at the word dog, “d-o-g,” in a different way you will find God, “G -o-d.” If I look uniquely at Famous as a gift from the Giver of all life, then I will see an aspect of truth revealed in him. All good gifts come from the Father, but his gifts are not for our pleasure alone. They are given as a part of God’s plan to bring light to every shadow, to bring joy to every sorrow, and to remind us there is an eternal Love which is available to us.
Teach me to honor You, dear God, by sharing the gifts You have given unto me.
“For behold, the winter is past; the rain is over and gone. The flowers appear on the earth, the time of singing has come, and the voice of the turtledove is heard in our land. The fig tree ripens its figs, and the vines are in blossom; they give forth fragrance. Arise, my love, my beautiful one, and come away.” Song of Solomon 2:11-13 ESV
Famous and I both love our screen door to the back deck. For him it provides access to a safe space in the outdoors filled with sounds, smells, and refreshing breezes. He does not need my permission or assistance to exercise this preference. He can use it to bark warnings to yard intruders without giving chase. However, sometimes I think he sits there by himself thinking, “This is where I was really meant to be.”
For me the screen door of summer becomes a magical portal to time and memory. The screen door symbolizes freedom to choose to let the summertime warmth and fresh air into the house. It is irrational to use the screen door in the winter because of the escaping heat needed inside the house. But temperate summertime air instantly sets a lazier mood in a good Southern home!
The slamming of an older, spring-captured door from my childhood reminds me of running in- and out-of-doors, just as Famous does now. It reminds me of rushing to my bike to race to the pool, of running in for supper when called, and of neighbors standing outside and shouting eager invitations to come out and play. These doors remind me of a simpler time when security was obtained by a little metal hook used to latch the door so that you could sleep while cooler nighttime air drove away the day’s heat. (Now we have to buy security systems connected to our cell phones to make us feel safe.)
Enjoy the pleasures of summer now that they have arrived. Remember the freedom God offer to all who believe, and thank him for a bountiful season.
I will praise You for all Your wondrous works!
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