Desert Journey – Day 33

Every morning my neighbor, who lives two doors down, walks his dog. When they get in front of my home, the dog stops and refuses to take another step. As I sit in my den and observe, it makes me chuckle. The only way the dog moves forward is for the owner to take her off leash. So, after a brief tug-of-war and some discussion, the owner unleashes the dog, and they continue their walk.

Maybe the dog was awaken from her slumber and prefers to sleep, after all, they walk quite early. Perhaps, the dog wants to walk at her own pace and the owner is rushing to get back home so he can leave for work. Whatever the reason, the dog has a mind of her own. It sure offers some comic relief each morning.

Free will, allows us the choice to follow or not. The Lord never drag us into submission. I suppose we are like the dog off leash, we have a choice to come along.

I want to follow Jesus without wandering. Holy Week is fast approaching and I sense a slight hesitation within, a tug-of-war if you will. The upcoming story is painful and heart-wrenching and hard to fully internalize the depth of sacrifice. I want to remain by his side, however, it is easy to look the other way, so many did. I want to offer Jesus comfort for what he will endure. Again, my comfort seems so insignificant in light of his impending suffering.

For now, I walk next to him and stay close. Holy Spirit, help me be faithful.

 

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