One of my favorite times of day is when. Charlie (short for Charcoal) my black lab, and I go for a two-mile walk. For years we have taken the same route, past fields of geese feeding on tall grass, and ponds just begging a water dog to take a swim.
Charlie is a rescue dog. Found on a country road, the animal shelter was his home for a year and a half. Having the temperament of an over-sized lap puppy, he did not experience being “put-down” after the standard three months, but was confined in a small cell. So, having the freedom of going for a walk in wide-open spaces is Charlie’s idea of heaven.
There is a point in the walk where, Charlie comes off of the leash and is allowed to run, and explore in fields, creeks, and ponds. Even when the temperatures are in the thirties, he will go for a swim in the first pond he sees. I love seeing him enjoy the freedom I have given him. As long as he comes when I call and remembers to keep his eye on where I am, then he can blissfully do what all dogs dream of doing – run!
Charlie will run after squirrels, and geese and, sometimes, he pretends they are around just as an excuse to continue running. But, he listens for my voice to let him know if he has gone too far.
When we come to a corner he knows to stop and wait for me to give the signal to cross. Time and situation has proven, that he has no clue why he has to stop and wait on me. He just knows, if he does not wait, he will be back on the leash.
There are times when other dogs appear and Charlie would love to go and make friends. But, I can look at some dogs and I know, these are not the kind of dogs that will be good friends. He doesn’t understand that when these situations arise, I am protecting him not punishing him. But, I stroke his back, telling him what a good dog he is, as we past the other dogs without incidence. Then the leash is again, removed.
Watching Charlie running, I hear the Lord bend His Holy knee and whisper into my ear. “I love to see you enjoying what I have given to you.”
He brings me into wide-open places to dance for Him to see, to sing at the top of my lungs, to call to others. And I can be in the open unafraid because He is guarding me.
Rejoice in the Lord always. I will say it again: Rejoice! Let your gentleness be evident to all. The Lord is near. Do not be anxious about anything, but in every situation, by prayer and petition, with thanksgiving, present your requests to God. And the peace of God, which transcends all understanding, will guard your hearts and your minds in Christ Jesus.” (Philippians 4:4-9)
God delights in giving us space to run. As a father watches his daughter laughing, dancing, singing and jumping with joy – our Father in Heaven looks at us in a ver simular way. His limits are only for teaching, and for protection, in the freedom of wide-open spaces.
Also linking with Lisa Leonard at Hello Monday
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What a beautiful realization that God knows me so completely. Running and dancing freely at times, knowing that he wants what is best for me always. Knowing that my leash is in his safe hands and he will use it to protect and keep me from all harm. Beautiful thought evoking words.
Terrie, You and Know that freedom and discipline of dancing in the wide open! Love you, Girl!
Beautiful post and pictures. It is good to be reminded that God not only loves us but He likes us, too! Thanks!
Thank you Susan, It’s nice to have you visit,and offer a comment. Hope you have a wonderful Week
Nice analogy!!!
Thank you, Connie!
Great words and pictures! FREEDOM. Love this.
Hi Barbie, I’m excited about your upcoming adventure! Keep me posted!
Such a beautiful analogy, Diane. I love seeing Charlie enjoying the wide open spaces. I love thinking you you, wiggling toes in sand. Beautiful.
Hi Laura, and yes, the sand in my favorite place to put my toes! (laughing) I’m guessing you are a beach chick as well.
Diane,
You have a way of painting word pictures and adding interesting photos to make the perfect package. I, too, have a rescue dog. Can’t imagaine life without Hemingway.
Carolyn
Oh, Carolyn, I have missed you!
Our pound pups are a treasure to have! Thank you for your kind words of encouragement. If you are anywhere near, I want to have coffee with you!