God spoke: “Let us make human beings in our image, make them
reflecting our nature
So they can be responsible for…every animal that moves on the face of Earth.”
God created human beings;
he created them godlike,
Reflecting God’s nature.
He created them male and female.
God blessed them:
“Prosper! Reproduce! Fill Earth! Take charge!
Be responsible…for every living thing that moves on the face of Earth.”
(Genesis 1:26-28 The Message)

God in His great mercy and kindness gave us animals to care for and love. Mark and I have a Golden Retriever named Rhema who we adore. In the one year we have had her, she has taught us so much about God and His love for us.

When I fed her this morning, I sang a little spontaneous song over her, asking God to help her grow in obedience to me as I grow in obedience to Him. It might sound corny, but I do this almost daily. Then I kiss her face, look in her eyes and wonder, “If I love this creature this much, how much must God love me?”

Today is National Dog Day. Let’s pray that these soul-ish creatures in our lives would bring us joy, teach us to love, teach our children responsibility, and bring healing to us and those around us with their unconditional love and faithfulness.

Father,

Sometimes when I look in the eyes of my dog, I am struck with the love and beauty you have put into your creation. I am in awe of how much you love me. Please use my dog as a reminder today that with you always at my side; therefore, I do not have a care. With you holding the leash of my life, I am in the best of hands. Pain, problems, stress, and trauma are no longer a primary focus; I have nothing to fear, nothing to dread. I am loved by my beloved Master, my Father God.

Thank you.

Amen