I marveled as I heard the story of one of my daughter’s dogs she rescued. To look at the dog with his scarred head, you would think he had been in many fights. But the fact is that due to gross neglect, the dog was covered in deep bacterial infections and fungi with running sores all over his head and body. These deep sores left scars. His internal digestive condition was such that his body was not digesting food, so he was malnourished to the point of starvation. Those infections were in his paws so he could hardly walk, and certainly, each step was with pain. These sores and his skin condition made him extremely sensitive to touch. Just to touch him would cause him to react. His lowered immune system caused him to be resistant to cure and healing, and it made him subject to any infection, fungus or any other debilitating condition that might come his way. With much hair missing and being covered with oozing sores, he was a sight to behold. Most would think he was worthy of a bullet to put him out of his misery. But not the heart of an animal rescuer. The heart of the animal rescuer sees beyond the present condition and rolls up the sleeves and proceeds to administer the cure. The daily routine was overlooking the reactions from frequent, painful medicated baths. Internal medications had to be administered daily. Slowly, his digestive system had to acclimate to nutritious food. In that period of time there is much regurgitative and diarrhea reaction. Slowly, patiently, daily, the rescuer administers the cure. In time, the conditions are conquered. The dog goes from torment to tranquility. Knowing the story, one can understand the loving look of gratitude that emanates from the dog’s gaze to his owner and master. What a picture of how the Lord Jesus works to rescue those who are out of the path of abundant life! Many people are carrying many spiritual bacterial and fungal sores. Outwardly, we can look really good and pretty, but inwardly we can be filled with fear, skepticism, hatred, bitterness and evil thoughts of all kinds. We can adapt to our misery, but we are sore to the touch, so easily offended and angered. Our walk is affected by sore feet. We can’t handle good, spiritual food so we spew out negative opinions wherever we go. The Good Shepherd, Christ Jesus, draws us to Himself and takes us in. His daily, loving, tender, patient care administers the Word of truth and the Spirit of life and power to us. Slowly, our torment is transformed into tranquility. The very image of Christ is formed within us. In Him there is life, peace, purpose and power. Living in the life and nourishment that only Jesus can provide through His Word and Spirit, is the way to abundant life and contentment. With Jesus as Lord and Master, we can gaze upon Him and render praises for all eternity.
Rescued and Rendering Gratitude
Published by
