Good Dog; Bad Dog!

Our new little pup, Zoe, is a canine version of Dr. Jekyll and Mr. Hyde.  This old film tells the story of Dr. Henry Jekyll, a kind English doctor in London who is certain that within each man lurks impulses for both good and evil.  One minute, Zoe can be wrapped up in my arms, coddling and cooing like the sweetest puppy on the earth.  The next minute, she sounds like a roaring lion, ready to trounce on anyone trying to get her latest toy.  The back and forth nature of our puppy's personality is pretty comical.

A few days ago, during one of Zoe's finer moments, I had to wonder if she could actually read.  She's pretty smart, but not that smart.   I was working away at my desk when all at once I looked down to see her eating a book.  She's tried to eat a variety of non-edible items, but this is the first book.  The name of the book was "How to Raise the Perfect Dog" by Cesar Millan.  She took a good chunk out of the cover.  Yum.  Not sure if she was trying to tell me something, but it definitely made for a good laugh.

At times, Zoe is a very good dog.  She is doing well in puppy training and super smart at picking up new tricks.  She is just a blast to have.  At times, Zoe is a bad dog.  She still bites.  Growls like a lion. Gets under your feet. Forgets to go outside to do her business.  You get the idea.

Zoe's actions are no different than our own human nature.  We can look great to the outside world, have  a stellar performance at work and yet come home and get in a fight with our spouse.  Even with the greatest of intentions, our normal sinful nature pops out when least expected.  We can stretch the truth.  Get mad on the freeway. Gossip.  Judge.  Hurt others.  Goof up big time at work.  We're human.

Guess what?  We're ALL broken people.  I am.  You are.  And we can't cover it up, as hard as we try.  We are all sinful people.  All of us.  Our help to change comes from God who sent His Son Jesus to die for our sins.  Jesus too came to us broken, bruised and bleeding.  He has answers for our hurts.  He wants to heal the broken places of your heart.  There is nothing you've done or experienced that Jesus can't sympathize with you.  He understands.  He is there for you.  As much as we want to run to people for answers, people will not always have the ability to be there for you all the time.

People can give great advice, help and encouragement.  But, God knows us better than we know ourselves.  He has answers for our problems.  Aren't you glad you don't have to be perfect?  As you start this day, draw near to the One who knows and loves the real you.

"For we do not have a high priest who cannot sympathize with our weaknesses, but One who has been tempted in all things as we are, yet without sin.  Therefore, let us draw near with confidence to the throne of grace, so that we may receive mercy and find grace to help in time of need." Hebrews 4:15-16

Nancy Abbott is the Chaplain for the YMCA of Greater San Antonio.