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Seeing God through His creation

I was 5 years old.  I had a messy pony tail, stained floral night gown, and a big goofy smile that screamed joy when I witnessed that little spunky, wide eyed, scruffy dog frolic in my living room for the very first time.  
I witnessed authentic patience from my dog when I would constantly dress her up in Build-a-Bear clothes.  
I witnessed companionship when we would chase each other around my green canvas of a yard when no one else would play with me.  
I witnessed compassion when I would sit in my room crying over my parent's divorce a couple years later.  
I witnessed courage when this tiny chihuahua would take initiative and nibble and bark at anyone that she felt may have been a threat.  
I witnessed faithfulness when she didn't judge me through my messy phases in my teenage years.  And finally, I witnessed what genuine unconditional love looked like until the very last breath. 

circa' 2001


"Blessed are those who mourn, for they will be comforted." Matthew 5:4
 I whispered a prayer for peace as my family and I entered the vet to say good bye to Abbey.  Leaving the vet empty handed put a heavy weight on my heart.  It was so heavy that I felt numb and could barley cry.  However, just moments after stepping outside, the Lord broke down that wall.  A black, orange, and brown butterfly fluttered around my face and flew away into the sky.  As soon as I saw that butterfly, the numbness was gone and I was able to feel.  I cried and the peace I prayed for was accompanied. 

If you don't already know, the butterfly is symbolic to the resurrection of Christ.  Take that as you will but I believe we can see the glory of our precious Lord through the beauty of His creation.  

My dog, Abbey, was such a blessing in my life.  God used her to show me so many beautiful qualities of the heart of Jesus.  

Jesus brings simple joy into our hearts.  He is patient with us no matter how many times we may fall short.  Jesus is our friend and wants to spend quality time with us.   He is full of compassion with the many sorrows we endure in this broken world.  He is courageous and wants to fight our battles.  He is faithful to us no matter what messy stage we walk through.  And most importantly, He breathed His final breath on the cross because of His overflowing, unconditional love for us.  He took on the cross and resurrected to give us the hope that death does not have the final say.  

Death is apart of life, but have peace knowing that it isn't the end.  And while Abbey's passing may be sad, I can smile as I reflect on the humongous and remarkable impact that her tiny paw print marked in my heart.

Thank you for being such an amazing companion, Abbey.  We love you so much.



   

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