If anyone else thinks he has reasons to put confidence in the flesh, I have more: circumcised on the eighth day, of the people of Israel, of the tribe of Benjamin, a Hebrew of Hebrews; in regard to the law, a Pharisee; as for zeal, persecuting the church; as for legalistic righteousness, faultless (Philippians 3:4-6).

You know what I like about our dog?

She’s not trying to impress anybody.  She just came in from the back yard, scruffy and damp and smelling of something she should not have been rolling in.  She arrived with a wagging tail and a big puppy grin, nothing to prove, just happy to be here.

You know what else I like about our dog?

She has no illusions of grandeur.  She is fully aware–to the extent that a dog can be aware–that she is dependent upon us, and she seems utterly fine with that.  She makes no attempt to feed herself, or let herself out, or bathe herself (although I wouldn’t mind that last bit). She is content, knowing that her needs will be met by those who love her and have chosen her..

You can learn a lot from a dog.

Happy Monday, Beloved.