Come!
Come to me, all you who are weary and burdened, and I will give you rest. Matthew 11:28 (NIV)
Fear and panic cause us to do some whacky things that we would not do under normal circumstances. We like to think we are creatures of habit and for the most part, we are. But the minute something unexpected happens, we step into crazy land and struggle to find the exit. Kim Sheard (All God’s Creatures) shares a lesson learned from a panicked dog.
*****
A blur of quick movement caught my attention. Slowing the car, I realized it was a medium-size brown dog galloping toward the intersection with a major road, no owner in sight. And it was rush hour. Without thinking, I pulled ahead of his trajectory and to the side of the road, flashers on. Grabbing the leash and treats I keep in my car for my work as a pet sitter, I hurried to the sidewalk between him and the traffic on the busier street. The dog was still headed in my direction, dodging other pedestrians who didn’t seem to notice him. Wide-eyed with ears pinned back, he managed to stay on the sidewalk instead of swerving into the road where cars continued to whoosh by. As he got closer, I squatted and opened my arms, calling, “Come, puppy!” The terrified dog ran right into my embrace.
Once I had secured him with the leash, I was able to read the tags on his collar, call his frantic owner, and take him home. She had no idea what might have spooked him and caused him to dart out her front door, but now, he was safe because he had been willing to come to me.
I, too, have darted in fear from challenges in my life, not ready to take them on. Sometimes I run in the wrong direction, toward trouble instead of away from it. I may not think before I act, or I let my emotions overflow before taking a breath and asking for help. But like that lost dog, I have a Rescuer who gladly reaches out, saying, “Come to Me.”
No matter my burdens or how frightened I feel, Jesus calls me, welcoming me to peace and safety in His arms. I need only to run to His embrace.
Lord Jesus, when I am frightened or worried or in danger, help me remember to listen for Your call and run to the safety of Your arms. Thank You for Your loving care. AMEN.