Okay, I know that’s a weird title – and no, Fred is not writing this blog post. (He IS a smart dog, but he’s lazy!)
This morning, like most mornings, after letting Fred out I gathered my Bible, my prayer journal, devotional book, found my quiet place and settled in to start my day with God. And, like most mornings, Fred jumped up beside me, pressing into me, looking up into my eyes as if to say, “I’m here now and Mommy, I love you!”. He always does that, but today it struck me as such a clear picture of all God wants from me – from us – to stop long enough to gaze on His face, to press into Him, to just love Him back. He couldn’t care less about what religion I am – He just wants a relationship. That’s why He created us…for relationship and fellowship with Him!
But my analogy of Fred didn’t stop there. This dog loves me unconditionally! He doesn’t always understand or like what happens in his life – like being put outside for the day when everyone else goes to work – but he’s totally dependent on me and trusts me to take care of his every need… and knows I’m coming back! When I get home at the end of the day, he is so happy to see me! So happy that he runs to find a gift for me, usually a stuffed animal – with or without the stuffing – and it always makes me smile and laugh. The only thing I expect from him is love and obedience.
So I ask myself – Do I love my Father unconditionally? Even when I don’t understand or like what He’s doing in my life? Am I totally dependent on Him? (I AM whether I realize it or not!) Do I trust Him to supply my every need? Am I happy and eager to greet Him each day – longing to see Him and spend time with Him? And even my gifts – wow – what a picture! God doesn’t NEED my money, or my time, or my skills. He doesn’t NEED anything from me…but oh how it must delight Him and bring a smile to His face when I run to Him with all I have and lay it at His feet.
All He wants is a relationship with me. For me to love Him, to spend time in His Word and do what it says. It’s as simple as a dog’s life. Are you Fred? or Gracie? or Chip? or Summer? or Rover? (I have never known a dog named Rover – have you?)
I am Fred.
"And I - in righteousness I will see Your face; when I awake I will be satisfied with seeing Your likeness." -Psalm 17:15
SUP #5
Wow. I can't believe it's been so long since I posted an update on my sister! After her hospital stay in July they changed her meds....and she hasn't been sick at all!! Thank you gracious God!! She's been feeling good and has been going to work! The last doctor's report was that the tumor was shrinking. Next Monday, September 26 is her last scheduled chemo treatment. Three weeks after that she will probably have another PETscan and it will be determined if she still needs surgery or not. At her request our prayers are that the tumor will be completely gone and surgery won't be needed. But either way, we will be grateful to a faithful God!
As many of you know, a friend & co-worker of mine will be participating in the Susan G Komen 3-day Walk in Philadelphia in October...and will be walking for Leisha and a couple of other very special ladies. Every participant of the 3-day is required to raise a minimum of $2,300 in donations and I'm ecstatic that Kristen has more than met her goal! She has worked so hard to raise the money and I will be forever grateful to her. Thank you Kristen!!! If you would still like to donate in my sis's name, here's the link...
