The unconditional love of pets

Recently I had requests from two pet owners for prayerful treatment for their pets.  Throughout the day, I noticed that Mocha, my lovable Rottweiler, stayed uncommonly close to me. She has always been close by when I do my morning prayer work, and that day, I named her my assistant.  Later on, I got the happy news from both pet owners that all was well.

I thought about the deep and uncluttered spirituality of animals.  They have much to teach us!  The lessons from animals is an old, old story.  In the Bible, the book of Job has this to say:

But ask the  animals what they think—let them teach you;
let the birds tell you what's  going on.
Put your ear to the earth—learn the basics.
Listen—the fish in the ocean will tell you their stories.
Isn't it clear that they all  know and  agree that God is sovereign,
that he holds all things in his hand--
Every living soul, yes, every breathing  creature?
Isn't this all just common sense?

 Job 12 from The Message
(click here for other translations of these verses) 
 
Each animal lover I know has a bond with their furry and feathered friends that can only be explained in spiritual qualities.  Mocha has been the furry representative of joy, forgiveness, present-mindedness, patience, contentment, spontaneity, obedience and stability.  She is a reminder that these qualities are reflections of God.  When I have been sad, or jumping for joy, or simply quiet and praying, she responds with those healing qualities of God.   Mocha simply teaches me that God's tender loving care is right here and tangible.

What spiritual lessons have your pets taught you?
   

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