2 Thessalonians 2: 13 But we are bound to give thanks alway to God for you, brethren beloved of the Lord, because God hath from the beginning chosen you to salvation through sanctification of the Spirit and belief of the truth:
14 Whereunto he called you by our gospel, to the obtaining of the glory of our Lord Jesus Christ.
15 Therefore, brethren, stand fast, and hold the traditions which ye have been taught, whether by word, or our epistle.
16 Now our Lord Jesus Christ himself, and God, even our Father, which hath loved us, and hath given us everlasting consolation and good hope through grace,
17 Comfort your hearts, and stablish you in every good word and work.
Three years ago, I went to Pets by Judy. I had read carefully his profile and I wanted to meet and adopt Jason. Jason was getting older and had been returned to the shelter many times. Every potential home had ended in his return to the shelter and the cages where he lived. When I arrived, the shelter showed me other dogs and other options instead of bringing out Jason. I almost left with a different dog; but at the last minute the other dog snapped at me and I said, “I cannot help a dog whom I am afraid of.” So, I firmly said, “I came to see Jason; please let me see him."Reluctantly, they cleared the area of other dogs and brought out this Rottweiler/Hound mix who was obviously older and looked a little anxious. He apparently did not get along well with other dogs. I took him for a short walk and he would pull hard in various directions; but when I pulled him tighter he responded. Then I told them, “ I want him." Off we went home where he became the best friend, protector, and the best dog I could have ever had. I never caged him; because I knew he had been caged enough in his life. He responded to my love and was devoted completely to me. Whatever room I was in, he was there. Gradually any behavior that he realized displeased me changed. He quit digging in the trash and I didn’t have to hide it anymore. He quite pulling against me when he saw a dog or cat as we walked. His greatest joy was to just sit in my presence. Doctrinal truth, I am uncertain whether animals go to heaven or not; but Thursday night Jason passed on. His last years of his life were transformed because I chose him. My life was definitely brighter because of his love and devotion toward me.
I would say that the same is true of me. God chose me to be His child and He gently through His love has transformed me. He has shown everlasting love and hope through His grace toward me. I, much like Jason, am so devoted to Him–desiring to always be by His side, learning of Him or just sitting in His presence is enough. God’s grace still amazes me, each and every day of my life. Because I see God’s Overwhelming Love, Mercy and Grace toward me; I am transformed little by little, mercy by mercy into the likeness of Christ. Please listen to the following song–I know the words will uplift you.