The Love Connection

“Ruby, come.”

My border collie perked her ears and came running. The moment she took notice of the treat in my hand, she repeatedly leapt into midair. If Ruby could talk, she would say, “Hurry up, tell me what to do. I love you and want to please you.”

Ruby went on to her other trick of grabbing her tail and spinning in circles at lightning speed. I finally gave her a command, “Ruby, jump and spin.” After a leap combined with a 180° turn, with most of the turn airborne, I delivered the tidbit which she gobbled down.

My family and I love Ruby as much as she loves us, maybe more. She adds a special joy to our home that is precious.

Thinking about her love brought a truth planted throughout the New Testament to mind. Jesus tells us that if we love him, we will obey Him. Then why does the word obey conjure up a negative picture of a master and his dog, which turns most of us off? We humans balk at being told what to do and when to do it.

Jesus tells us his love is proven by obedience to God, his Father. Does Jesus make it possible for us to follow His example? He does, even on those days when we feel like an old dog that can’t learn anything new. Otherwise he would not have said, “If you love me, you will obey what I command” (John 14:15).

As long as we take some time out of each day to spend with Jesus, we are never too old or set in our ways to learn what genuine love is all about.

Jesus, I praise you for being my perfect example. Teach me the secret of the love connection by helping me to obey what you command. I do love you with all of my heart, soul, mind, and strength. Amen.