Seeking Freedom

Some of you say, "We can do whatever we want to!" But I tell you not everything may be good or helpful. (1 Corinthians 10:23).

My dog, Mr. Grumbles, has been with me about fifteen years now and I am not sure how old he was when my roommate put him on my sofa for me to find. Initially I had said no to having a dog, but there were other plans. He had been chained to a refrigerator all day with just a bowl of water. He came with the name Chewy but was renamed Mr. Grumbles due to his constant grumbling sounds. His genetics lean toward a mix of Corgi and Pomeranian.

After all this time, we have lived in several different homes but we have always been there for each other. He now spends most of his time sleeping and looking for me when I disappear from his line of vision. I could tell you so many stories about this little stocky guy but I will spare you. However, I do want to share a life-lesson he has recently taught me.

I never have to worry much about him running off during the day. He does not really like the cold and truly dislikes hot weather. He is more of a couch potato! Now as evening sneaks in, he seems to come alive and push the limits. When I announce that it is bedtime and try to corral him in, he slaps his little feet on the ground and runs in the opposite direction. He finds great interest in all kinds of things that do not seem to intrigue him during the day.

There is no bringing him inside until he is good and ready. It is maddening to me but exhilarating for him. So, what have I learned from this senior pup? He may wander off and explore but he never goes very far outside his boundary. It is not the tree line or fence that holds him in, but love and security that keeps him close to me.

That is so much like us as we relate to our Father. There are times when we get a wild hair, an itching to go out and do something on our own, but we usually find our way back quickly because we thrive on that security and peace that blankets us.

Oh, to be more like our loyal pets! We have so many lessons to learn.

 Father God, help me to recognize and remain within the boundaries You have set for me so that I can experience true freedom and safety. AMEN.