I thank God for everything He gives.
I especially celebrate those things that cost Him most dearly and hurt Him most deeply, the things of His purpose and glory–His blood, His sufferings, His Spirit, His word, the church. By His mercy, I hope to never stop carrying those things around, trying to help people see their value, even if they’re not the hottest pulpit topics.
But the list of His grace stretches down to smaller things that, while not saving us eternally, certainly assist us temporarily. Paul wrote, “He who did not spare his own Son but gave him up for us all, how will he not also with him graciously give us all things?” (Rom. 8:32).
Zoey, my daughter Elizabeth’s pit-mix, was one of those “all things.” Years ago, as an adult dog, she had needed a home. Elizabeth responded, making space for her.
It looked as though Zoey would be the beneficiary. However, it became evident over time that she brought things with her that blessed our small family. She was the most intelligent animal I ever saw, and more importantly, the most emotionally intuitive. She seemed to absorb the moods of those around her. Her feelings were easily hurt, and she pouted. Yet, hers was a simple joy over whoever was with her. She loved people and other dogs. As such, she was a tremendous companion, easy to get along with, and didn’t have an obnoxious bone in her body.
But, as with all the small graces of this life (that leave such a big impact), there came a time of cessation. The double whammy of old age and cancer finally got her. Zoey’s sweetness and compatibility couldn’t overcome those things.
We loved her, and though we lost her in the vet’s office the other day, we didn’t lose the happiness she brought.
The God of all grace had provided Zoey as a necessary companion up until the time my daughter herself grew and entered another season of life. That’s what He does–freely gives whatever it takes, and whatever we need.
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This is an updated edition of a post originally published on John Myer
Featured Image by Mike Burke on Unsplash
