Yesterday, for the children’s time in two of our three worship services, I showed the children White Dog. She is a rescue dog that Shannon brought home from the animal shelter after I had put my foot down and informed her that I was the man of the house, and we weren’t getting any more dogs.
Shannon named her Prim but I’ve always called her White Dog. Because of this, Prim thinks her name is White Dog. That’s all she’s heard so that’s what she believes. This proves if someone hears something long enough, they will begin to believe it. That’s why our church ends every children’s time with the children saying, “God Loves You!”
In a world where people are told their true value is based upon how much they have in a bank account, the car they drive, the house they live in, or the clothes they wear, the church has a different message. This is the message of hope in the time of uncertainty. It lets people know that God loves without reservation, hesitation, or qualification. God loves.
That’s the sort of message that sets the parameters of our lives, gives us peace in the midst of the storm, and reminds us that our true value doesn’t come from what we have, who we are, or what we’ve accomplished. It comes from the One who created, redeemed, and sustains us.
So as you begin a new day filled with challenges and stressors, remember, no matter what you face, your God loves you and is here for you. That will not change.
John said, “So we have known and believe the love that God has for us. God is love, and those who abide in love abide in God, and God abides in them.” (1 John 4:16)
God loves you. That’s what matters most.
Prayer: Dear Gracious Heavenly God, thank you for loving me. Help me proclaim your love to those who are desperate, lost, and afraid. Let me live a life that pleases you. In Jesus’ name I pray. Amen.
Live today knowing that the Lord of Love is here for you. That will not change.
Also, using White Dog reminded me, DOG spelled backwards is GOD. Not sure what that has to do with anything but it’s interesting.
I pray your day is filled with joy and laughter.
Tom Robbins
Daily Devotionals by Dr. Tom Robbins 