Stay with the Master
“I have chosen the way of faithfulness; I set your rules before me” (Psalm 119:30, ESV).
Question: Where do you walk with Jesus? I know it is a strange question but have you ever really thought about it? Do you hang out beside, behind or before Him?
To answer that question, let me share my thoughts from dog obedience school with Mr. Grumbles (around 13 years ago). I decided he needed some training (or I did) so off we went to Seminole County Community College every Saturday morning at 9am for 8 weeks. All together there were sixteen of us in the group from a huge Afghan to a tiny little wispy something; but we were all there for similar reasons.
Now, Mr. G was a smart boy prior to this class and I just wanted him to learn commands. I can’t say that about all the other canines in attendance. Some danced around on their leashes, there were a few dog fights, and there was open rebellion as I observed dogs refusing to walk.
By the end of the two months, Mr. Grumbles won the best of show for obedience and somewhere I still have his purple ribbon. He needed no leash, he followed, came when called, stayed in place and even did all his hand commands perfectly. It was a happy day for both of us.
As time went on, he became extremely vigilant of me and my whereabouts. When we walked, it was a pleasure. If frightened, he got behind me. If protective he moved slightly ahead of me. As long as things were sensed as okay, he walked right beside me. When I stopped, he stopped.
I think that is a great lesson! Our walk with Jesus should resemble obedience school. When life is okay, we find ourselves walking with Him in the coolness of the day; we laugh and discuss deep issues. Occasionally the storms arise to bruise or batter us; leaving us to take refuge behind Him or under His wing. He is the one who steps in front and protects us by taking the beating for us. Truthfully, there are still moments when we try to get ahead of Him and make things happen. Usually, it does not work for our benefit.
Mr. G is old now. He is slower with everything—walking, moving and he doesn’t play much anymore. It hurts his old bones to sit down so I don’t ask him. He coughs a lot. His sight is not good and he can’t hear as well but he comes to life when he hears my voice calling him. He can still find me and I gladly give him a little back scratch or a treat.
I have learned that it is wise to stay with the Master.
Father God, help us to be willing to finish our obedience school and use what we have learned. AMEN.